Composer

:

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1927 - 1929

Publication Date

:

1957

First Performance

:

May 12, 1936

Average_duration

:

115:42

The Poisoned Kiss is an opera in three acts composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams. The opera was composed between 1925 and 1929, with the libretto written by Evelyn Sharp. The opera premiered on 12 November 1929 at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, London. The plot of The Poisoned Kiss revolves around a young man named Richard who is in love with a woman named Angela. However, Angela's father, the Duke, disapproves of Richard and forbids him from seeing her. In an attempt to win the Duke's approval, Richard seeks the help of a sorcerer named Cuddy who gives him a potion that will make the Duke like him. However, the potion is actually a poison that causes the Duke to fall into a deep sleep. To wake him up, Richard must find the antidote, which is hidden in a kiss from a woman who has never been kissed before. The opera is divided into three movements, each corresponding to one act. The first act introduces the characters and sets up the conflict between Richard and the Duke. The second act sees Richard searching for the antidote, which leads him to a group of women who have never been kissed before. The third act sees Richard trying to find the right woman to kiss the Duke and wake him up. The music of The Poisoned Kiss is characterized by Vaughan Williams' use of folk melodies and modal harmonies. The opera also features a large orchestra, including a prominent role for the harp. The vocal writing is lyrical and expressive, with a focus on the characters' emotions and motivations. Overall, The Poisoned Kiss is a charming and whimsical opera that showcases Vaughan Williams' unique musical style. Its premiere was well-received, and it has since become a beloved work in the operatic repertoire.

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