Ramsier, Paul

The Man on the Bearskin Rug (1963)

Duration: 35 minutes
Comic opera in one act

Libretto by James Elward (E)

Scoring
S,A,Bar 1.1(=corA).2(II=bcl).1-2.1.0.0-perc(1):timp/SD/BD/tamb/tgl/cym/gong- harp(ad lib)-pft-1.1.1.1.1 or string orchestra.
Abbreviations (PDF).

Territory
This work is available from Boosey & Hawkes for the world.

World Premiere
6/1/1973
Columbus, Ohio
Company: Ohio State Opera

Roles

HENRY	Baritone
DORIS, Henry's fiancée	Soprano
MRS. LE MOINE, Henry's landlady	Contralto

Time and Place
Today, the home of Henry and Doris

Synopsis
Henry and his fiancée Doris are arguing over a party they have just left. As Doris leaves to return to the party, the landlady, Mrs. Le Moine, arrives with a large package that contains an enormous white bearskin rug. When unrolled and placed on the floor, it makes an incredible difference to the atmosphere in the room. Mrs. Le Moine practically throws herself in Henry's arms, and they are discovered by Doris. Henry persuades Doris to stand on the rug with him.  Its effect is immediate, and they are kissing when Mrs. Le Moine returns with the news that the rug really belongs to the upstairs neighbour Sidney. With its departure, things settle down to the same dull reality. Doris resumes her nagging and Henry returns to his role as a bullied man.

Moods
Comic, Romantic

Subjects
Magic/Mystery, Relationships