|
1984 Prologue |
1998 Prologue |
An opera seria is to be presented at the home of a very wealthy gentleman
in 18th century Vienna. In the midst of frantic last minute preparations the
Music Master is informed that the opera will be followed by a comedy.
|
| 10:39 |
11:55 |
The Music Master explains the situation to the young composer of the opera.
He becomes very upset and insists he will never be able to write again.
Moments later he is inspired by a delightful new melody which occurs to him. |
| 17:55 |
19:30 |
The Major Domo appears with an announcement that the Tragedy of Ariadne and
The Tale of Fickle Zerbinetta will be presented simultaneously so that the
fireworks which follow will begin promptly. The young composer is devasted, but
the members of the comedy troupe are unfazed. They are masters of
improvisation. Zerbinetta, a member of the comedy troupe, turns her charms on
the composer. |
| 35:53 |
39:51 |
The young composer becomes inspired once again and reflects that music is
the most holy of all the arts. When he sees the comedians preparing to go on
stage he runs off in despair to avoid seeing the desecration of his opera. |
|
|
Ariadne has been abandoned by Theseus and is alone on the island of Naxos.
Three nymphs (Najade, Dryade and Echo) have been observing her for many days.
They try to console Ariadne. |
| 11:08 |
Ariadne recalls her life with Theseus, then expresses her desire for Hermes
to come for her so that she may experience the peace of death. The male members
of the comedy troupe (Harlekin, Scaramuccio, Truffaldin, Brighella) are
unsuccessful in their attempts to cheer up Ariadne with songs and dances. |
| 31.26 |
Zerbinetta tries to reason with Ariadne; she describes her philosophy of
love. Ariadne returns to her cave. The troupe now presents a comedy:
Zerbinetta flirts with all four men but finally chooses Harlekin. |
| 50:39 |
The nymphs describe the arrival of Bacchus on Naxos. Ariadne mistakes him
for Hermes, the god of death. They fall in love and Bacchus assures Ariadne that
death will never tear her from his arms. |