Melania The Opera is a farcical comic opera that blends sharp political satire with personal journeys. Set against a backdrop of chaos and authoritarianism, the opera explores themes such as status, greed, pride, and humanity.

Melania, shaped by her communist upbringing, finds herself grappling with universal questions in a world turned upside down. As her homeland, Slovenia, faces invasion by Russia and Donald Trump publicly declares his indifference, Melania is thrust into a crisis that forces her to make the most pivotal decision of her life.

The opera combines spoken word and song, offering audiences a fresh and engaging journey.

Created by Melinda Hughes and Jeremy Limb – both Royal College of Music alumni – ‘Melania The Opera’ draws on their extensive backgrounds in opera, cabaret, and comedy.

“Melania the Opera”  had a sell-out premier (second night added) at The Cockpit Theatre, London as part of the Tete a Tete Opera Festival 2025. It is now being developed into a 75 min opera.

‘ingenious opera-cabaret’ Scherzo

‘There was a vocal grandeur to Hughes’s performance’ Opera Magazine

‘First Lady satire that is somehow moving’  The London Evening Standard

 ‘a sweary, funny first lady faces  the music’ The Times

Melania is written by Jeremy Limb & Melinda Hughes (with additional lyrics by comedian Rich Hall)

Directed by Daniel Slater.

Cast:

Louise Innes

Phil Clieve

Melinda Hughes

Nathan Richards

Meighread Dandeneau

Musical Director: Guy Murgatroyd

Choreography: Tim Claydon

Designer – Carly  Brownbridge