Mexica ruler honored in Nahuatl-language opera

STORY: This opera is honoring an ancient Mexica ruler

and is performed in the ancient Nahuatl language

The play tells the story of the penultimate ruler of Mexico-Tenochtitlan called Cuitlahuac

Cuitlahuac was the only ruler to defeat the Spanish conquistadors during the 'Victorious Night' battle in 1520

[Samuel Zyman, Opera composer]

"I think we are doing something that has not been done much. Trying to pay attention to a hero who had been more or less ignored and also to do it in a lyrical genre, with singing, with all those elements but in the Nahuatl language. We are vindicating many things because traditionally, in this country and in other countries, we have this idea that opera is European and that it is only done in Italian, in French. It doesn't have to be like that. I mean, this is a Mexican story, why not do it in the language of the Mexica, of the people we are representing on stage."

The opera features more than 150 performers from singers, to musicians and dancers

[Nina Alvarez Icaza, Attendee]

"Extraordinary, I really think they know how to convey those feelings very well. I mean, what is happening on stage, what they are saying in their lines, they really know how to convey it in an incredible way. Along with the scenography, the dancers, and the lines is what moves us, it is what makes us so sensitive. We were all suffering what they were going through at that moment.”

[Francisca Bernie, Attendee]

"I was very impressed by the opera. I was very touched by the history of those groups that had been invaded and had the courage to defend themselves until the end. That really touched me. I think the opera has shown Mexico has a great connection with its culture and with what has happened in the past.”