The world premiere of “Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote” is scheduled for January 2026 in both the United States and Mexico.

The new bilingual chamber opera by Pulitzer Prize–winning composer Anthony Davis with libretto by Allan Havis and Spanish text by Laura Fuentes, is based on Duncan Tonatiuh’s children’s book of the same name and explores the hopes, trials, and perils of migration along the U.S.–Mexico border.

The work follows its titular character as he seeks his missing father, encountering the cunning Coyote and symbolic trials along the way. The work features a chamber ensemble of more than two dozen instruments, including marimba and vibraphone, and draws inspiration from allegorical and children’s music traditions.

Principal roles include Pancho Rabbit sung by soprano Mariana Flores Bucio and the Coyote sung by tenor Victor Ryan Robertson.

The world premiere showcase is set for Jan. 17, 2026 at the Southwestern College Performing Arts Center in Chula Vista, CA with a second performance at the venue set for Jan. 18, 2026.

Then the production heads to Mexico for a single showcase on Jan. 31, 2026 at Casa de Cultura in Tijuana.

The commission is supported by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Read Related Stories

• Anthony Davis’ ‘Amistad’ to Tour NYC & Connecticut This Summer

• Anthony Davis to Compose ‘Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote’ Opera for Bodhi Tree Concerts

• International Contemporary Ensemble to Present ‘Anthony Davis & Leila Adu-Gilmore’