To mark the Moniuszko Bicentenary, the Polish Composers' Union and the Teatr Wielki, Warsaw have launched an international composing competition to write a micro-opera. The pieces should not be longer than twelve minutes.

In his works for the stage Moniuszko tackled social issues and morals. He also referred to events that were important for Poles at the time. He would juxtapose tragedy and humour, creating pieces that were entertaining, yet aesthetically refined. He portrayed emotional states and situational subtleties with great skill and expertly juggled clearly defined characters and popular dramatic motifs. He was able to express himself perfectly through his music, especially melodics and instrumentation.

The competition's goal is to promote these objectives in contemporary opera composition, while appreciating its distinctive mode of expression. The organisers wish to help revive Moniuszko's vision of opera as a music drama drawing on social issues.

The competition is open to all composers regardless of age or nationality. Submitting an entry is free of any fees. Entries must by sent by e-mail on 31 July 2019 at the latest. For details, go to the Regulations (in English).

The organisers will shortlist up to six works which will be staged before an audience on 14 December 2019 at the Młynarski Hall of the Teatr Wielki, Warsaw, following which the winner will be selected.

First-prize winner will receive 40,000 Polish zloty. The remaining finalists will be awarded 20,000 Polish zloty, while the winner of the Audience Award will receive 10,000.