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Act One
After saving a lost baby bird, Ivan is given the ability to understand birds. With his brother, Nicolai, Ivan is tested by his father, Petya, to see how he will make his way in the world. Ivan reveals this gift: a bird prophesies he will be a prince, angering Nicolai and Petya. Ivan and Nicolai are apprenticed to a ship captain. Nicolai pretends he knows how to pilot a ship, but steers it into a storm and then towards a band of pirates. Ivan listens to the birds who guide the ship to safety.
Act Two
Three crows torment the Czarina and Sofia. The Czarina decrees that whoever drives the crows away will gain Sofia's hand, but failure means death. Nicolai drives the crows away with cats, but at their wedding, the crows return. Ivan learns the crows are royalty who need the Czarina's advice. Ivan asks for mercy for Nicolai. Sofia asks to marry Ivan. A beggar arrives who has been searching for his sons. Ivan recognizes his father. A happy reunion and wedding commence.
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