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The Girl and the Unicorn
Commissioned by W11 Opera in 1978, published by ChesterNovello
Synopsis: To catch a Unicorn, the old books tell us, you must put a young girl in its way. It will become docile at once, and place its head in her lap. Then it may easily be taken. This is the story of the death of an innocent creature at the hands of ignorant and frightened people, manipulated by a selfish and powerful figure. Bu the death brings new life with it.
Composer |
(Click for a larger view) |
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Librettist |
Stephen Oliver |
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music director |
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Soloists |
Dumb Girl, Mother, Sinister Person, Unicorn |
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Groups |
Neighbours, Inspectors, Policemen, Good Little Girls, Hunters, Salesmen, Bovver Boys, Cherubs, Devlits |
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Orchestra |
2 Violins, 2 Violas, Cello, Double Bass, Recorders, Flute, Clarinet/ Alto Sax, Bassoon/ Harmonica, Trumpet, Piano, Bass Guitar |
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Reviews and Feedback: Coming soon!
Plot
Part I: A sinister woman persuades the town that a Unicorn in the nearby forest is dangerous. They put a dumb, catatonic girl out as bait.
Parable I: Henryson and the Wolf: “First things first.”
Part II: The Unicorn is captured.
Parable II: St. Peter and the Devil: “A Blessing in Disguise.”
Part III: As a source of income to the town, the Unicorn becomes useless, and is destroyed. In trying to prevent its death, the Girl finds her voice.
Parable III: Jesus and the Blind Man: “There’s no going back.”
Gallery
(Click on the preview icons for full size pictures)
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