Significant French Operas

Angélique

Opera in 1 act

Music by Jacques Ibert

Libretto by Nino

Cast:
Angelique                                            Soprano
Boniface                                              High baritone
1st Commere                                      Soprano
2nd Commere                                    Mezzo soprano
Charlot                                               Baritone
An Italian                                           Lyric tenor
An Englishman                                 Tenor
A Moor                                               Bass
The Devil                                            Tenor
Chorus: Neighbors who do not sing but speak in rhythm.   

Background

Synopsis

     Angelique quarrels with her old husband, Boniface, making his life miserable, breaking his china. He advertises her for sale. Three customers appear in turn - an Italian, an Englishman, and a Moor. But all demand their money back. In despair, Boniface wishes her to the Devil, who promptly obliges. The bereaved husband and suitors forget their grievances and rejoice together, but all too soon the Devil also repents of his bargain - his establishment and his disposition are not proof against such a temper. Reluctantly Boniface takes Angelique, who promises to behave. After the final celebration, the curtain rises again, and Boniface informs the publis: "She is still for sale."

Libretto

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Last updated: January 08, 2008