How the Tomcat Zorbas Taught the Little Gull to Fly

By Luis Sepúlveda, translated by Willi Zurbrüggen

"The problems of a harbour cat are the problems of all harbour cats," declares old restaurant cat Colonello when he learns of the promise tomcat Zorbas made to a dying gull. Oil-covered and exhausted, she has landed on his balcony and in her last moment laid an egg. But how is the good-natured black tomcat to take on the brooding and later teach the chick to fly? A task not to be managed alone. The Hamburg harbour cats stand together and with combined effort care for the little bird.

Flying, however, is a very personal decision. The little silver gull must first accept her difference and discover within herself the desire and courage to fly. After many unsuccessful attempts under the expert guidance of the Clever One and his beloved dictionary, Zorbas and his cat friends are forced to break a taboo and ask a human for help. The choice finally falls on an eccentric poet, of whom it is said that he can fly with words…

This poetic and subtle fable, full of humour, heart and depth, comes from the pen of Chilean author Luis Sepúlveda and is also a tribute to Hamburg and its famous harbour district. Since its publication thirty years ago, it has been translated into 27 languages and continues to delight people of all ages around the world.

Michael Stülpnagel brings the characters of the Hamburg harbour cats and their adventurous mission to life with many voices and unbridled storytelling enthusiasm. Pianist Poldy Tagle lends the story musical wings.

A great listening pleasure with music that moves, delights and uplifts - from October in the Esslingen Scala.

Narrator
Michael Stülpnagel

Piano and Arrangements
Poldy Tagle

Recommended from age 8
Duration: 70 minutes without intermission