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Rosamunde Floris
(1960)Libretto by Gerhart von Westerman, based on the play by Georg Kaiser (G)
S,lyrS,dramS,2T,Bar,B,speaking role;
3(III=picc).2.corA.3(III=bcl).2.dbn-4.3.3.1-timp.perc-harp-pft-cel-strings;
On-stage: pft-perc-vib-db
Abbreviations (PDF)
Bote & Bock
Berlin
Company: Ensemble Städtische Oper
| ROSAMUNDE FLORIS | Lyric soprano |
| MR.BENLER | Bass |
| MRS.BENLER | Soprano |
| BRUNO and ERWIN, their sons | Tenors |
| SISTER WANDA | Dramatic Soprano |
| WILLIAM | Baritone |
| PARK KEEPER IN THE BOTANICAL GARDENS | Speaking role |
| PRISON DIRECTOR | Speaking role |
Palm house, appartment, prison; the present time
The lovers, William and Rosamunde, must part for William is going away to the tropics for ever. Soon after, Rosamunde tries to seduce the young Erwin Benler at a fancy dress ball in order to secure a father for the child that she is expecting from William. Bewildered, Erwin tries to get away from her and falls down a staircase, resulting in his death. Rosamunde tells Erwin's family that she is expecting his child. At this news, Erwin's brother Bruno breaks off his engagement with Wanda to marry Rosamunde so that the family will not be disgraced. When Wanda finds outs the truth of the matter and confronts Rosamunde, she is pushed off a high garden wall and sustains fatal injuries. Bruno learns the truth about Rosamunde's pregnancy from writings that Wanda has left behind. After Rosamunde has unsuccessfully tried to kill him as well, she confesses her guilt.
Dramatic, Poetic, Tragic