All the colours of the forest come to life in a fox’s tale of love, life and loss.

Young, playful and mischievous Vixen Sharp Ears disturbs the napping Forester as she chases a frog near the woods. Thinking she will amuse his children, he bundles her up and carries her home. Wilful and independent, she wreaks havoc and refuses to stay captive for long.

Inspired by a newspaper comic strip, Janáček takes an enchanting tale and turns it into a colourful reflection on the highs and lows of life and death in nature’s constant cycle of renewal. Entwining dance, mime and orchestral interludes into the storytelling, he blends folk-derived melodies with sophisticated, lushly orchestrated harmonies to create a personal and modern musical style.

Vladimir Jurowski conducts the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Directed by Melly Still.

Captured live at Glyndebourne Festival 2012.