Thematic Cat. #:

JH.L1

Text/Libretto:

Peter Shaffer, based on a tale of Rabelais

Commissioner:

The Intimate Opera Company

Date of composition:

1952 – 1953

First performance:

24 September 1953, Lowestoft Music and Arts Society. First London performance: 1953, Royal Festival Hall

Duration:

45’

Solo Voices/Cast:

The Wife (soprano), The Husband (tenor), The Apothecary (bass-baritone)

Instrumentation:

1(1=pic).1.1 (1 =bcl).1 /1.0.0.0./pf/string quintet, or string orchestra

Scene:

Apothecary’s study and the bedroom of the husband and wife. France, early 15^th century.

Manuscript:

Royal College of Music Library

Availability:

For hire from Royal College of Music Library