Details

First performed on May 17th, 1959, at the National Theatre, Prague. Near Florence. The Marchese di Forlimpopoli and the Conte d Albafiorita have been staying for several weeks at an inn where they are rivals for the attention of the proprietor, Mirandolina. Also staying is the misogynist Cavaliere di Ripafratta (who says he would 'four times prefer a good hunting-dog to a wife). We meet Mirandolina and learn that she delights in the adoration of men yet has no need of marriage and prefers her freedom. The servant Fabrizio also jealously loves Mirandolina. She decides to test both the Cavaliere s professed misogyny and her capacity to turn his heart. Her kindness and disarming manners (aided by a few glasses of wine) win the Cavaliere. He realises that he is falling for her and decides that it is time to 'check out and escape before his heart is lost altogether. He capitulates, however, when - for her 'final onslaught - a tearful Mirandolina brings him his bill and then faints. The Cavaliere, giving in to feelings of love for the first time in his life, pledges himself to her. The taunts of the Marchese and Conte concerning his lost misogyny, however, drive him out of the room in a temper. Later, Fabrizio complains to Mirandolina of her interest in rich men rather than himself. The Cavaliere returns, full of the joy and energy of first love, only for Mirandolina to ignore him in favour of her ironing. He moves quickly from distress to fury. Mirandolina grows alarmed and decides that she must stop these games and marry Fabrizio whom she reassures with promises.

Creatives/Company

Music: Bohuslav Martinu