love is a wall
copyright 1992
ARGUMENT
ACT ONE
The father and three brothers of a young girl are worried about
how she will fare as an adult. Will she be like a swinging door
to the first man she sees, or like a wall of righteousness?
While promising to reward her if she proves chaste, they
decide to give her some time in isolation watching their
grapevines. Her interests lie in a certain young shepherd
boy, who secretly visits her there. Afterward, while trying
to combat some grape-thieving foxes, she happens upon King
Solomon's travelling entourage. She is there discovered by
the King's Eunuch, who urges Solomon (hidden in his sedan)
to take the beautiful maiden into his household. Unable to
question such authority, she goes along with them.
ACT TWO
The Eunuch proclaims his life is full of joy in the harem,
especially so since "eunuch" is only a title and not a physical
condition. Solomon leaps out from his sedan and objects to the
current notion that his own life is nothing but glee. He then
tells a little about himself and how smart he thinks he is.
The Eunuch tries to persuade the girl to be receptive to the
King. Determined to remain loyal to her love, she resists
pressure to accept the role of a royal concubine. She
describes her young lover to the ladies of the court with a
little subterfuge, not really explaining he is merely a
shepherd. In the boy's daring nighttime attempt to visit her,
they touch hands through a high opening in the door, but
before she can actually see him, the shepherd boy is captured
by the Eunuch, who asks Solomon to execute him.
ACT THREE
Pending the sentencing, the court is visited by the Queen of
Sheba, in search of the wisest man on earth. She is treated to
a demonstration of Solomon's wisdom when he decides a case of
two mothers who claim one infant son: he orders the child to
be cut in two. (There is no blood shed in this case!) In spite
of her profession of his wisdom, Solomon reveals his heart to
the visiting queen, and tells her his life has little meaning
because he has nobody who really loves him. Should he execute
the boy? The young maiden expresses her resolve, saying she
will go to the grave in love with her shepherd. The Queen
advises that this girl has a loyalty that the king may never
see elsewhere, and tells him to let her go. In the final scene,
the boy is thrown through a doorway, then out walks the girl,
who is covered with gold jewelry. Returning to her home, she is
taken for a princess until up close. Lifted high and decked
with gold in the final song, she repeats that love is the
strongest thing of all.
ACT ONE
SCENE ONE
SET:
From stage left:
two benches, door (edgeways) bench with small table and mirror
(mirror 45 degrees facing stage left) on table is a stuffed doll,
on floor behind table is a cloth bag and an outer garment, stool,
long table with four chairs, one at head for father.
MUSIC:
Play (MIDI)
OVERTURE
INTRODUCTION TO WE HAVE A LITTLE SISTER
CURTAIN RISE
ACTION
Men are at table, girl offstage. Men begin banging cups on the
table in time with the music. Girl enters stage right, with hair
up under turban, begins filling their cups from a water jug on
the table, takes position on stool.
Play (MIDI)
MUSIC:
WE HAVE A LITTLE SISTER
ACTION:
Brothers stand for singing parts, girl refills cups during first
chorus. Father strokes beard pensively. During last verse, girl
dances to bench in front of mirror and sits down. Brothers
exit stage right at end, father remains at table in shadow
through next song.
1. WE HAVE A LITTLE SISTER (brothers)
We have a little sister
she's really not too smart
she hasn't any manners
she hasn't any heart
she thinks she's getting older
we really wish she would
we always have to scold her
to make sure she is good
If she's a door (she's a door that swings)
that swings easily
by giving her heart (giving her heart to him)
to the first man she sees
we'll bolt her and lock her until she grows old
if she's a wall (she's a wall that stands)
and proves herself chaste
keeps herself clean (keeps herself clean and)
and her feet are well-placed
we'll carry her high (carry her high with joy)
and deck her with gold
carry her high (carry her high)
and deck her with gold
What if there comes a suitor
who wants to take her hand?
now would she be too fickle
or would she understand?
oh, would it be a game for her
or really from the heart?
and would she have the wisdom
to tell the two apart?
If she's a door (she's a door that swings)
that swings easily
by giving her heart (giving her heart to him)
to the first man she sees
we'll bolt her and lock her until she grows old
if she's a wall (she's a wall that stands)
and proves herself chaste
keeps herself clean (keeps herself clean and)
and her feet are well-placed
we'll carry her high (carry her high with joy)
and deck her with gold
carry her high (carry her high)
and deck her with gold
perhaps we should take care of her
until she's had some time
to get away from childishness
get settled in her mind
it wouldn't be a punishment
to send the girl away
temptation could be detriment
allowing her to stay
If she's a door (she's a door that swings)
that swings easily
by giving her heart (giving her heart to him)
to the first man she sees
we'll bolt her and lock her until she grows old
if she's a wall (she's a wall that stands)
and proves herself chaste
keeps herself clean (keeps herself clean and)
and her feet are well-placed
we'll carry her high (carry her high with joy)
and deck her with gold
carry her high (carry her high)
and deck her with gold
Play (MIDI)
I SAW HIM AGAIN
ACTION:
Girl at bench, singing into mirror.
Lets hair down, stands and
turns after first verse.
2. I SAW HIM AGAIN (girl)
I saw him again this morning
I feel like a new day is dawning
and I'm suddenly aware there's a change in the air
It's all happened without any warning
my heart wants to race in its beating
I don't have any interest in eating
is he thinking of me? Is it real what I see
in his eyes when he gives me a greeting?
Love is gentle, love is kind
Love knows all and love is blind
Love has power, love is mild
for the aged and the child
like the highest castle wall
love's the strongest thing of all
my confidence somehow is shaken
It's a whole new direction I've taken
but I felt from the start when I gave him my heart
that a powerful force would awaken
In the int'rest of wanting to guide me
my family's trying to hide me
when do I get to say
that I'll choose my own way?
And I want him to be there beside me?
Love is gentle, love is kind
Love knows all and love is blind
Love has power, love is mild
for the aged and the child
like the highest castle wall
love's the strongest thing of all
love's the strongest thing of all
Play (MIDI)
YOU'RE TOO YOUNG
ACTION:
Father rises and meets girl centerstage,
he postures stiffly.
3. YOU'RE TOO YOUNG (father, girl)
You're too young to know what love is
a girl your age can only feel that
love is yearning, constantly burning
a smold'ring fire, unfilled desire
you're too young to know the meaning
you'll find out you're only dreaming
put your passions on the shelf,
you're in love with love itself
and as you grow
you'll come to understand my reason
why you must go
and guard the grapevine for a season
and you'll thank
me for my timely intervention
and the frank-
ness of my speaking my intentions
(How can I prove my love?)
You're too young to know what love is
(How can I show my heart?)
a girl your age can only feel that
love is yearning, constantly burning
a smold'ring fire, unfilled desire
(what can I do or say?)
you're too young to know the meaning
(can I wait one more day?)
you'll find out you're only dreaming
put your passions on the shelf,
you're (I'm) IN LOVE WITH LOVE ITSELF
yes, you're (I'm) IN LOVE WITH LOVE ITSELF
Play (MIDI)
ONLY A BLOSSOM
ACTION:
Girl picks up small bag, puts outer
garment into it. Picks up and
sings to doll during first verse.
Tosses doll aside, sings final
verse centerstage, carrying bag.
4. ONLY A BLOSSOM (girl)
I'm only a blossom on the coastal plain
my hair is wet from the morning rain
my face is darkened from too much sun
but something wonderful has just begun
Becoming a woman at last
maturity I will find
the time of my childhood is past
and now I must leave it all behind, I don't really mind
becoming a woman, becoming a woman
I never knew I could feel this way
like I could spread my wings and just fly away
and I hear the music so loud and strong
like a hundred voices raised up in song
Becoming a woman at last
maturity I will find
the time of my childhood is past
and now I must leave it all behind, I don't really mind
becoming a woman, becoming a woman
Play (MIDI)
PRECIOUS TIME
ACTION:
Girl goes through door as boy enters
stage left. She begins standing
while he sits, He stands and sings,
both stand for last verse,
holding both hands. Boy exits stage left.
5. PRECIOUS TIME (Girl, boy)
I don't want a castle
Just give me a home
for where is life's meaning
if you spend it alone?
And I don't want more jewl'ry
what I have is just fine
and I'd gladly trade it
for some of your
Time, all that I want is your precious
time, all that I want is your precious...
some people dream of a vision of glory
with riches and power, a beautiful story
but I'd be content with a life that is simple
My world is divine, as long as it comes with your
Time, all that I want is your precious
time, all that I want is your precious...
I don't want a trophy
to hang on my wall
a mountain of dow'ry
doesn't matter at all
And I don't want to wonder
if you're really mine
but what I want most of
is some of your
time, all that I want is your precious
time, all that I want is your precious
time, all that I want is your time
Play (MIDI)
HOW CAN I PROVE MY LOVE
ACTION:
Girl moves to centerstage, not through door. Walks slowly to stage
right, in front of curtain drop zone.
6. HOW CAN I PROVE MY LOVE (girl)
How can I prove my love?
How can I show my heart?
What would it take to demonstrate
that I'm ready to dedicate
My everything?
that's why I sing
My love is real not just an emotion
and what I feel, undying devotion
I'll never yield my love is real
What can I do or say?
Can I wait one more day?
before my final separating
as though a leper, waiting
Quarantined.
that's what I mean
My love is real not just an emotion
and what I feel, undying devotion
I'll never yield my love is real
not just an emotion and what I feel
undying devotion I'll never yield
my love is real
CURTAIN DROP
SCENE TWO
Play (MIDI)
MUSIC:
INSTrUMENTAL, "SOUNDS"
download mp3
ACTION:
Girl walks across slowly in front of curtain. Exit stage left.
CURTAIN RISE
SET:
Four poles support a grape arbor with leaves and grapes showing,
slightly left of centerstage. Girl, wearing outer garment, is
seated on floor, leaning on one of the poles, she holds a
partially completed basket she has been weaving.
download mp3
Play (MIDI)
TELL ME GRAPEVINE
MUSIC:
ACTION:
Girl stands to sing, occasionlly hugs basketwork, directs chorus
to the grapevine. After song, she sits down again, but puts away
the basket.
8. TELL ME GRAPEVINE (girl)
How long must I wait for the
chance to go straight where my
heart will be able to
make a new start?
tell me
How old must I be when I
finally please them and
I will walk out of that door
for sure?
tell me, grapevine,
I'm eager to discover
if there's a sign
what's happened to my lover
I spend my daytime
wond'ring if there's another
life for me
and I'm wondering if
there's a message for me
and whether I'll ever be free
my youth seems to be
a great sickness to me
that eventually I will be cured
to some degree
now tell me
where is the justice in
saying I must have someone
tell me my song's not sung
I'm too young?
tell me, grapevine,
I'm eager to discover
if there's a sign
what's happened to my lover
I spend my daytime
wond'ring if there's another
life for me
and I'm wondering if
there's a message for me
and whether
I'll ever be free
tell me grapevine
tell me grapevine, tell me now
THE RAINS HAVE GONE
Play (MIDI)
ACTION:
Girl cups her hands and makes a turtledove sound. Boy appears
stage left also calling with his hands. She sings, he sings.
They hold hands and sing .
9. THE RAINS HAVE GONE (girl,boy)
I'm hearing the turtledoves
they're calling each other
they're singing mournfully
and hope to discover
that the rains have gone
the downpour is over
the figs are ripe and so is the clover
you're here with me and finally
we spend a few moments privately
the time is right
for finding your lover
what a beautiful day
for us to discover
that the rains have gone
the downpour is over
the figs are ripe and so is the clover
you're here with me and finally
we spend a few moments privately
Let me look at you
let me see what I'm missing
so when you belong to me
I will know what I'm kissing
'cause the rains have gone
the downpour is over
the figs are ripe and so is the clover
you're here with me and finally
we spend a few moments privately
Play (MIDI)
YOU ARE SO LOVELY
ACTION
Both remove outer garments and sing to each other. After a brief
embrace, boy exits stage left.
10. YOU ARE SO LOVELY (boy, girl)
You are perfection well defined
you seem so perfectly designed
I want to fix you in my mind
with all the words that I can find
to recall you
You are so lov-ely to me
you're all I wanted you to be
I wish that I could find the key
to make sure no uncertainty
would befall you
You are so lovely, you are so grand
I know someday I'll have your hand
we'll be as one just as we planned
then everyone will understand
how you and me were meant to be
your eyes are sparkling like the sea
with sunlight shining through the trees
I see them calling out to me
I feel I'm falling endlessly
into their passion
your breasts are round when you undress them
someday I know I will caress them
the day when you will marry me
the day when setting virgins free
becomes the fashion
You are so lovely, you are so grand
I know someday I'll have your hand
we'll be as one just as we planned
then everyone will understand
how you and me were meant to be
FOXES
ACTION:
Girl is joined by three dancers in fox masks, who sing and are
generally chased by the girl. (note - mask should be a snout
with no obstruction of the mouth) At end of song, foxes exit
stage left, two soldiers enter stage left.
Play (MIDI)
11. FOXES (girl, foxes)
Now that I've been banished
do you think I can relax?
not when grapes are missing
and I see these little tracks
Foxes, how I hate them
with their pointy little snouts
Foxes, will I ever
find a way to keep them out
Foxes, when you scare them off
they come back just the same
Foxes, I can't take it
they're driving me insane!
When it really seems to me
that things could never get much worse
then I get a visit
from the vineyard master's curse
Foxes, how I hate them
with their pointy little snouts
Foxes, will I ever
find a way to keep them out
Foxes, when you scare them off
they come back just the same
Foxes, I can't take it
they're driving me insane!
It reminds me of my brothers
well, to me they're just the same
it's them that does the damage
and it's me that gets the blame
Foxes, how I hate them
with their pointy little snouts
Foxes, will I ever
find a way to keep them out
Foxes, when you scare them off
they come back just the same
Foxes, I can't take it
they're driving me insane!
they're driving me insane!
can you help me with these foxes?
FANFARE
ACTION:
CURTAIN DROP
Girl and soldiers stand in front of curtain drop.
(arbor is removed) Girl is surprised by soldiers, then responds
to fanfare. During first chorus, curtain rises and the King's
court enter stage left, soldiers carrying a sedan with curtains
all around. The sedan is placed far left stage, its carriers
stand at attention. Girl, two soldiers, and Eunuch, move to
centerstage; all others exit stage right, continuing their
forward motion.
Play (MIDI)
12. FANFARE (girl, soldiers)
What is the people I see in the distance?
never have seen it in all my existence
there must be fifty or more
mighty men by the score
they are ready for any resistance
It is the leader of all of the nation
he has been travelling on a vacation
in his litter he rides
'neath the curtain he hides
always causes the greatest sensation
Long may King Solomon reign
praise for his glorious name
Praise his name, praise his name, praise his name.
It is the litter he built out of cedar
and it is fit for a powerful leader
with all the workings of gold and a dozen to shoulder
it, we know that he's a big eater
It is the leader of all of the nation
he has been travelling on a vacation
in his litter he rides 'neath the curtain he hides
always causes the greatest sensation
Long may King Solomon reign
praise for his glorious name
Praise his name, praise his name, praise his name.
IT'S A WILDFLOWER
ACTION:
Eunuch circles girl and wrings his hands greedily. During second
verse, goes to sedan and lifts curtain to afford its occupant a
view of the girl (much easier than actually having someone inside)
two soldiers exit stage left. Sedan and all others exit stage right.
Play (MIDI)
download mp3
13. IT'S A WILDFLOWER (Eunuch)
What is this I'm seeing
I can't believe my eyes
that in this barren countryside
there's such a great surprise.
well, I must approach the carriage
I've something to discuss
my master merely says the word
and she will come with us
It's a wildflower standing where the sun has struck it
A wildflower waiting for someone to pluck it
A wildflower
the time has come today to be in a bouquet
Well, I've a weighty job to do
I'm working for the King
I search around the countryside
for every pretty thing
you can send two men at once away
to tell her family
she'll be living in Jerusalem
and living happily
It's a wildflower standing where the sun has struck it
A wildflower waiting for someone to pluck it
A wildflower
the time has come today to be in a bouquet
IF SHE'S GONE
ACTION:
Boy enters stage left, two soldiers enter stage right. They stop
briefly as though to speak. Soldiers exit stage left, boy sings
occasionally gazing toward stage right. At end of song, boy
exits stage right.
Play (MIDI)
14. IF SHE'S GONE (boy)
If she's gone, I don't want to carry on without her
And if she's gone I could never sing another song
about her
If she's gone, I'll never have another ever-lovin' lover like her
If she's leavin', I will never stop the grievin' inside me
If I waken and I find that she's been taken
from beside me
If she's gone, I'll never have another ever-lovin' lover like her
My life will be so hollow I might as well just follow on
behind her
with our unity, I might have an opportunity
to find her
If she's gone, I'll never have another ever-lovin' lover like her
I could live forever and I'd never have another ever-lovin' lover
like her.
END ACT ONE
ACT TWO
SET:
From stage left: bench, door (edgeways) hassocks, floor mats,
sedan in deep centerstage (Solomon is now inside the sedan out of view)
fountain, large pillow
MUSIC:
SURROUNDED BY BEAUTY
ACTION:
Eunuch struts around while the ladies of the court pose and dance.
The girl sits quietly on a hassock.
mp3
Play (MIDI)
15. SURROUNDED BY BEAUTY (eunuch)
Every day I'm surrounded by beauty
I couldn't have a more excellent duty
there are hundreds of girls in confinement
my idea of a pleasant assignment
I watch them sleeping
I watch them eat
I watch them washing their dainty little feet
Oh, what bounty
Oh, what grace
makes my world
such a wonderful place
So many ladies
All dressed in lace
I'll go to Hades
with a smile on my face
And I have an official blue tunic
in my job as King Solomon's eunuch.
For I'm providing the rudiments
to satisfy his concupiscence
I watch them sleeping
I watch them eat
I watch them washing their dainty little feet
Oh, what bounty
Oh, what grace
makes my world
such a wonderful place
So many ladies
All dressed in lace
I'll go to Hades
with a smile on my face
In any of the other nations
I'd be subject to some mutilation
But in Israel it's not just the same
I'm a eunuch but only in name (spoken)
I watch them sleeping (shouted)
I watch them eat (shouted)
I watch them washing their dainty little feet
Oh, what bounty
Oh, what grace
makes my world
such a wonderful place
So many ladies
All dressed in lace
I'll go to Hades
with a smile on my face
yes, I'll sleep well in hades...
(yawns)
with a smile... on my...
face
THE KING HAS SPOKEN
ACTION:
Eunuch takes lead in singing and ladies vie for the large pillow
to hug and sit on, but as one is getting ready to sit, another
pulls it out and tries herself to sit on it, with the same result.
Solomon leaps out and sings his longest note.
At Solomon's appearance gongboy rings gong.
This is the gongboy's job. At end of song, King shoos everyone
from centerstage.
Play (MIDI)
16. THE KING HAS SPOKEN (court, Solomon)
If he wants to give his treasure out for free
LET IT BE
If he wants to take his pleasure with all three
LET IT BE
Though he sometimes might regret it
When he asks for it, HE'LL GET IT
the King himself has spoken LET IT BE
the King himself has spoken LET IT BE
If he thinks he wants to sail across the sea,
LET IT BE
If he wants to take me on a shopping spree
LET IT BE
Though he sometimes might regret it
When he asks for it, HE'LL GET IT
the King himself has spoken LET IT BE
the King himself has spoken LET IT BE
Well, on thing I am sure we all agree LET IT BE
that o-ur monarch's life is full of glee LET IT BE
o-ur monarch's life is full of glee
Well, on thing I am sure we all agree LET IT BE
that o-ur monarch's life is full of glee LET IT BE
o-ur monarch's life is full of glee
Yes, there's one thing I am sure we all agree
(All but meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!)
o-ur monarch's life is full of
o-ur monarch's life is full of
o-ur monarch's life is full of glee
LET IT BE! (shouted)
I ASKED FOR WISDOM
ACTION:
All watch from edges of stage, At end, Solomon leaves through door.
Everyone else relaxes a little and starts to mill around.
Play (MIDI)
17. I ASKED FOR WISDOM (king)
When I was a young man
I inherited this throne
I got it from my father
before I was full grown
God Himself appeared to me
to grant me just one wish
then I knew for certain
that my kingdom had offic-
ially begun
I asked for wisdom
not for power or for gold
That I might shepherd
this proud, rebellious fold
I asked for judgement
not for rich authority
but much to my surprise
he's given me all three
Now who could be compared to me
there's not another man
they might try to baffle me,
but there's noone who can
I can outthink anyone
it's just a simple fact
and I can do it easily
all with half my brain
a-tied behind my back
I asked for wisdom
not for power or for gold
That I might shepherd
this proud, rebellious fold
I asked for judgement
not for rich authority
but much to my surprise
he's given me all three
COME DOWN TO THE WATER
ACTION:
Women gather water from fountain in earthen jars, carry offstage
and return in an endless circle. The Eunuch sings to the girl.
At end of song, Eunuch exits through door.
Play (MIDI)
18. COME DOWN TO THE WATER (eunuch)
Come down to the water, virgin daughter
and let your past be a lesson to you
to take hold of life, you know you've gotta
take your flask to the edge of the pool
someone's calling, you've been stalling
leave all your tears and your fears
and bring your bucket down
I'm your tutor, the King's your suitor
I'm welcoming you to the concubine school
You know you see it
(you know you see)
you know you see it
(You know you see)
you know you see it
(you know you see)
get your bucket down...to the water
oo, oo, oo, oo, oo, oo, oo, oo, oo, oo, oo,
Come down to the water, virgin daughter
only a fool would even try to resist
to take hold of life, you know you've gotta
come to the pool, allow yourself to be kissed
someone's calling, you've been stalling
leave all your tears and your fears
and bring your bucket down
I'm your tutor, the King's your suitor
I'm welcoming you to the concubine school
You know you see it
(you (won't) know (if) you (won't) see (it))
you know you see it
you (won't) know (if) you (won't) see (it))
you know you see it
you (won't) know (if) you (won't) see (it))
get your bucket down...to the water
oo, oo, oo, oo, oo, oo,oo, oo, oo, oo, oo
you (won't) know (if) you (won't) see (it))
you (won't) know (if) you (won't) see (it))
you (won't) know (if) you (won't) see (it))
WAIT FOR TOMORROW
ACTION:
Girl moves to front of centerstage, sings in spotlight. Is joined
by two women. At end of song all the women gather around.
Play (MIDI)
download mp3
19. WAIT FOR TOMORROW (girl)
Maybe it'll be just one more night
Maybe it will be all right
Maybe I will see the morning light
in my lover's arms so I'll
Wait, wait for tomorrow, hide all my sorrow
for just one more day I will
Wait, wait in my prison, till the sun's risen
I just have to stay one more day
maybe I will just have to cope
maybe I can build my hope
maybe it's all a downhill slope
from the trail I'm on so I'll
Wait, wait for tomorrow, hide all my sorrow
for just one more day I will
Wait, wait in my prison, till the sun's risen
I just have to stay
one more day
one more day
one more day
one more day
DON'T MAKE ME FEEL LOVE
ACTION:
Women are surprised at this request as they gather around to listen.
Play (MIDI)
20. DON'T MAKE ME FEEL LOVE (girl)
Promise me, don't try to make me fall in
love with him, don't try to take me for a
fool, if I should seem to act too
cool, don't try to break me 'cause I
Love someone , whose very voice would make me
melt, whatever choice I have to
make, Well, that's the course I have to
take, I would rejoice if I could
Go to him, tasting his lips like petals
on a rose, honey that drips down to my
soul, being with him is still my
goal, he never slips out of mind
You're under oath not to make me feel something that's
more than the growth of my inward emotions
before I'm ready
for it's a lonely existence pretending you care
LEAD
You're under oath not to make me feel something that's
more than the growth of my inward emotions
before I'm ready
for it's a lonely existence pretending you care
WHO IS YOUR DEAR ONE
ACTION
First one, then two, then three women sing questions to the girl.
They join in her reply, feeling her enthusiasm for her lover.
At end of song, lights are lowered and women find their mats,
donning silky overdresses. Fade to black.
Play (MIDI)
21. WHO IS YOUR DEAR ONE? (ladies, girl)
Who is your dear one?
Is he a prince out of the East?
A perfect kingdom
he even reigns over the beast
His sovereignty is not so plain to see
but I feel as though he's reigning over me
He's so handsome, he's so fair
I can't tell you how much I care
the chance I see him again is slim
but I feel as though my heart belongs to him
Who is your dear one?
a wealthy landlord of the plains?
he wanders daily
through the fields of amber grain
His ownership is not so plain to see
but I feel as though he owns a part of me
He's so handsome, he's so fair
I can't tell you how much I care
the chance I see him again is slim
but I feel as though my heart belongs to him
Who is your dear one?
a busy trader of fine myrrh?
he handles livestock
lest some calamity occur
his profits are not all so plain to see
but I've profited from his dealings with me
He's so handsome, he's so fair
I can't tell you how much I care
the chance I see him again is slim
but I feel as though my heart belongs to him
SCENE TWO
SET:
Lighting is low. The women are asleep on little mats. A guard
sleeps on the bench beside the door.
MUSIC:
IS IT A DREAM
ACTION:
The boy enters stage left and approaches the door.
After the clock strikes, the girl rises and begins to sing .
The boy sings and reaches through the small opening high in
the door, holding her right hand with his left. She struggles
with the door latch and breaks it free on the last note,
waking the guard, who sounds the alarm.
Play (MIDI)
download mp3
22. IS IT A DREAM (girl, boy)
Is it a dream
or do I feel the presence of my true love
the only one my heart ever approved of
tell me, is it real
Is it a dream
and will I only wake up without warning
to another dreary emptiness called morning
and the hopelessness I feel
and if I really am just fast asleep
I wish there were a way that I could keep
from waking up at dawn
just let me slumber on
I would rather dream that I am here with you
than be awake and find that you are gone
Is it a dream
or do I hear the voice of my love calling
I feel as though I might be somewhere falling
tell me is it real
Is it a dream
or do I really feel my lover clutching
oh, could it be that we are really touching
lift the latch and break the seal
and if I really am just fast asleep
I wish there were a way that I could keep
from waking up at dawn
just let me slumber on
I would rather dream that I am here with you
than be awake and find that you are gone
I would rather dream that I am here with you
than be awake and find that you are...
MUSIC:
INSTRUMENTAL - ALARM
ACTION:
Guard grabs the boy, exits stage left, two soldiers enter stage right,
girl opens door too late to see her lover, she tries to escape,
but is thrown to the floor and struck by one of the soldiers.
Action enhanced by .5 second strobelight. Fan immediately
offstage blowing girl's gown while she runs in place, slow motion,
sliding her feet, held in place by a long shawl or cord around her waist
anchored by guard
At end of song, lights out.
CURTAIN FALL
MUSIC:
IT ISN'T SUCH A SIN TO SWAT A FLY
ACTION:
In front of curtain, two soldiers enter stage right, holding
boy by the shoulders. Eunuch enters stage left. At centerstage,
boy goes to knees, and Eunuch sings. All exit stage left at end
of song.
Play (MIDI)
23. IT ISN'T SUCH A SIN TO SWAT A FLY (eunuch)
What a nice surprise, it's truly grand
to have the one you seek fall into your hands
like an insect that's caught up in the weave
I'm the spider and I do believe
it isn't such a sin to swat a fly.
Why O, why? who would cry?
If a shepherd were to die?
It isn't such a sin to swat a fly
I can wield the power of the king
and take this little person and do anything
with someone of such little consequence
it's so easy to keep the royal innocence
It isn't such a sin to swat a fly.
Why O, why? who would cry?
If a shepherd were to die?
It isn't such a sin to swat a fly
On your feet, you shepherd, come along with me
down to the dungeon where we'll throw away the key
while the king and I will contemplate
how we could just decide to exterminate
O, it isn't such a sin to swat a fly.
Why O, why? who would cry?
If a shepherd were to die?
It isn't such a sin to swat a fly
ACT TWO
SCENE THREE
SET:
Solomon on throne deep centerstage. Guards flank it.
Gong at stage left. Gongboy rings at curtain rise.
CURTAIN RISE
MUSIC:
TAKE HIM OUT
ACTION:
Eunuch sings to king, who sits and strokes beard at first,
then rises and paces, looking alarmed. Sits on throne pensively
at end of song.
Play (MIDI)
24. TAKE HIM OUT (eunuch)
Take him out
he certainly deserves it for his crime
I've never seen the likes of it in all my time
and getting past the guards was pretty sly
a man like this for sure deserves to die
take him out
there's something else I think you ought to know
he seemed to have a certain virgin on the go
the one whose heart has been so very sad
the only one like this we've ever had
take him out, do him in
there's no doubt, it's a sin
take him out, do him in
use your clout, and you win
take him out
with him out of the way you can proceed
now, who has a garden that he doesn't have to weed?
and it's important now to act with haste
it's your own name and reputation he's disgraced
Take him out
Be like your father David, and heed me
he blotted out Uriah expeditiously
and then he took your mother as his wife
together they began another life
take him out, do him in
there's no doubt, it's a sin
take him out, do him in
use your clout, and you win
take him out
CURTAIN DROP
END ACT TWO
ACT THREE SET: THRONE ROOM
MUSIC:
SHEBA'S SONG
ACTION:
Four or more African-costumed dancers sing to drum accompaniment.
At end of song, dancers assemble in line at stage right, in a
centerstage-facing bow, with straight but spread legs, each hugging
the hips of the one in front of him. To the beat of a single triangle,
Sheba enters, walking on the backs of the dancers. Solomon
directs gongboy to act as a lower step, and moves to help her down,
taking her hand.
Play (MIDI)
MUSIC:
25. SHEBA'S SONG (Ethiopians, court)
Sheba the great Ethiopian queen
She's searching for a utopian dream
She's come to witness King Solomon's court
checking the acc'racy of the report
SHE (is crafty)
SHE (is strong)
SHE (is just where)
SHE (belongs)
SHE (ba)
SHE (ba)
SHE (ba)
SHE (ba)
Sheba the great Ethiopian queen
she won't believe in what she hasn't seen
she heard reports while in her own land
of this king Solomon's wisdom so grand
SHE (is crafty)
SHE (is strong)
SHE (is just where)
SHE (belongs)
SHE (ba)
SHE (ba)
SHE (ba)
SHE (ba)
SHEBA!
A SONG OF GREETING
ACTION:
Solomon grasps Sheba's right hand with his left hand
and rests fingers on his own chest while singing the one
note of this song. He is interrupted by screaming women offstage.
MUSIC:
26. A SONG OF GREETING
I... (SCREAMS OFFSTAGE; THE SONG IS ONE NOTE)
CHOICE BETWEEN TWO MOTHERS
ACTION:
Two women enter stage left, the one in front has a bundle that serves
as a baby. At the approriate time, a soldier comes forward, unsheathing
his sword. The first woman keeps the baby until the end of the song,
then gives it over to the other woman. Then Solomon takes it and
returns it to her. Sheba and Solomon stay onstage. Women exit stage
left, all others exit stage right.
Play (MIDI)
27 CHOICE BETWEEN TWO MOTHERS
O, Your Highness, Solomon
will justice not be done?
chastise this woman here
for kidnapping my son
No, my lord please listen
she's telling you a lie
she took away my baby
when she saw her own son die
Ladies now please help me
I need to know the facts
one of you explain it now
and the other one relax
You must use your wisdom
make an honorable decree
you decide the matter
AND GIVE THE CHILD TO ME
We both were living in one house
as the story is begun
we each were happy to be blessed
with our own first newborn sons
Then this woman's baby
must have perished as he laid
she came while I was sleeping
to my bed and made a trade
Why do you pretend to be
the mother of this child?
it's your son that's died and now
your grief has made you wild
You must use your wisdom
make an honorable decree
you decide the matter
AND GIVE THE CHILD TO ME
Now, it seems that both of you
are claiming just one son
I must decide between the two
before this day is done
It's really quite a choice to make
how can I know the truth?
what could be the touchstone
what could be the proof?
Well, here is my decision
there's just one thing to do
you attendants bring a sword
and we'll cut the kid in two
You must use your wisdom
make an honorable decree
you decide the matter
AND GIVE THE CHILD TO ME
The King himself has spoken
and who could ask for more
the men will do the cutting
we'll be equal like before
No.........., my lord, please listen
I respectfully defer
I am not the baby's mother
give the living child to her...
Now I know for certain
a mother's love has shown
and now you have my blessing
you can take your baby home
MUSIC:
YOUR WISDOM IS SURPASSING
ACTION:
Sheba sings to the king, but he only looks more and more forelorn.
Play (MIDI)
28. YOUR WISDOM IS SURPASSING (Sheba)
The things I heard about your land
it seems that they're all true
and now I've come to understand
the men like you are few
When they told me of your matters
I'd only sit and laugh
now my amusement has been shattered
I wasn't told the half
Of the richness of your tables
and the meaning of your fables, all about the
training of your servants
and your sacrifice observance
yes, your wisdom is surpassing
I want the world to see
that compared to you no other man
could outwit e'en a flea
Now that I observe these things
and go back to my land
I'll try to share the grandeur and
make others understand
Of the richness of your tables
and the meaning of your fables, all about the
training of your servants
and your sacrifice observance
MUSIC:
I HAVE EVERYTHING BUT LOVE
ACTION;
Solomon sings to Sheba; he feels sorry for himself.
Play (MIDI)
29. I HAVE EVERYTHING BUT LOVE (king)
When good things start to multiply
those eating them do, too
so what advantage do I have
but keeping them in view?
A hundred gardens, a thousand singers
lovely ladies by the score
I have every whim attended
tell me, who could ask for more?
To myself I'm always giving
everything worth thinking of
but what's the sense to keep on living?
I have everything but love.
I've explored all kinds of pleasure
I've cheered my heart with food and wine
with my wisdom studied folly
and what good did I find?
I have hated life and living
It's all striving after wind
for when I'm gone another man
will have what I've gathered in.
To myself I'm always giving
everything worth thinking of
but what's the sense to keep on living?
I have everything but love.
I want someone to care for me
and love me as I am
there is this lovely virgin girl
but she wants another man
what can I do to win this girl
please tell me if you know
with the competition out of the way
won't her love begin to grow?
To myself I'm always giving
everything worth thinking of
but what's the sense to keep on living?
I have everything but love.
what's the sense to keep on living?
I have everything but love.
MUSIC:
LET HER GO
ACTION:
Sheba sings to king, who merely sits and ponders.
Play (MIDI)
download mp3
31. LET HER GO (Sheba)
You asked for my advice I hope it will suffice
to tell you only how I feel. I'm a
woman; sometimes I can see
a lady's heart revealed what's only acting
and what is really real, you might as well
Let her go, she'll never belong to you
it would only be wrong to do to hold her
let your mercy flow you might as well
let her go, her love has a loyalty
and for all of your royalty it's something
you may never know
you better let her go.
You hold her in your hand she seems to take a stand
against you don't fly into a rage, take your
power and use it for the best
let her know she's blessed and free her
from this golden cage you might as well
Let her go, she'll never belong to you
it would only be wrong to do to hold her
let your mercy flow you might as well
let her go, her love has a loyalty
and for all of your royalty it's something
you may never know
you better let her, you know you better
Let her go, she'll never give in to you
and it's only a sin to do the holding
let her true love grow ,you might as well
let her go, her love has a loyalty
and for all of your royalty it's something
you may never know
you better let her go
MUSIC:
MY LOVE IS A WALL
ACTION:
Girl enters stage right, sings facing front. Exit stage right
after song.
Play (MIDI)
download mp3
30. MY LOVE IS A WALL (girl)
You tell me that I'll grow
and that I'll come to know
the meaning of my life
the chance to be his wife
but I've made up my mind
my love is not so blind
and even though I'm caught
my love can not be bought this way so
let me say : My love is a wall
and it never will fall
as God is looking down on me
I'll never leave my loyalty
my true love I'll save
down to my grave...
if that's to be my destiny
I know that he will wait for me
You tell me that I'll change
I shouldn't be so strange
that I'll lose all my fears
as days turn into years
but I've made up my mind
my love is not so blind
and even though I'm caught
my love can not be bought this way so
let me say ; My love is a wall
and it never will fall
as God is looking down on me
I'll never leave my loyalty
my true love I'll save
down to my grave...
if that's to be my destiny
I know that he will wait for me
My love is like a wall
SCENE TWO
SET:
Stage is bare except for closed door centerstage.
MUSIC:
31.5 INSTRUMENTAL - VISIONS
VISIONS
Play (MIDI)
ACTION:
Door opens, and boy is thrown onto stage, landing in a heap.
Near end of song door opens again and girl steps out, covered
with golden jewelry. He looks up at her in disbelief.
MUSIC:
TIME AND PLACE
ACTION:
Boy stands and sings to girl, she answers and they sing together.
At end of song, they take a few steps arm-in-arm toward stage
right. She leans against his shoulder.
Play (MIDI)
download mp3
32. TIME AND PLACE (Boy, Girl)
If I told you all you meant to me
this song could go on endlessly
and still leave things just hopelessly unspoken
and although I've never been adept
at showing feelings that have crept
up in me, won't you please accept this token
You're like a river
flowing softly through me
you're like the summer sun that warms me to the bone
you are the reason that life means something to me
you are a time and place where I can feel at home
when I feel you o, so close to me
and I don't just mean it physically
I know that we will always be unshaken
and it gives me such an ecstasy
to know that there's a guarantee
that you and I will never be forsaken
You're like a river
flowing softly through me
you're like the summer sun that warms me to the bone
you are the reason that life means something to me
you are a time and place where I can feel at home
You are the mighty Jordan river
flowing through my weary soul
you're the blazing harvest heat
that burns away the cold
you are the reason I still know how to reason
you are the time and place that I can call my own
my own
MUSIC:
WHO IS THIS WOMAN
ACTION:
Father enters stage right, sings first verse, boy and girl take
a step now and then, getting closer. Brothers enter stage right
behind father.
Play (MIDI)
33. WHO IS THIS WOMAN? (father, brothers)
Who is this woman, coming up to my door?
she looks so wealthy and I am still pour-
ing out my heart in the fields every day.
Who is this woman, maybe it's a mistake
back at the crossroads some confusion and she's tak-
en the wrong road and she wants to know the way
She's a princess with her lover
and I'm anxious to discover
what's the meaning of her visit
is it a portent or is it a ruse?
what's the excuse?
Who is this woman she's all covered with gold
all of that jew'lry and she doesn't look old
enough to carry around so great a store
Who is this woman so tall and so fair
who is this woman she makes everyone stare
she looks familiar
I think I've seen her face before...
34. INSTRUMENTAL - SISTER - BEGIN LOVE IS A WALL CHORUS
LOVE IS A WALL CHORUS
ACTION:
Girl moves to centerstage, holding onto boy by the left arm and
sings. At end of song, father and brothers begin to move toward
her, court begins to enter, stage left.
Play (MIDI)
35. MY LOVE IS A WALL REFRAIN (girl)
My love is a wall
and it never will fall
as God is looking down on me
I'll never leave my loyalty
my true love I'll save
down to my grave...
if that's to be my destiny
I know that he would wait for me
MUSIC:
Play (MIDI)
LOVE IS GENTLE
ACTION:
Girl begins song, is joined by cast, singing antiphonally after
first verse. Last verse, brothers lift girl on shoulders.
34. LOVE IS GENTLE (Girl, all)
Love is gentle, love is kind
Love knows all and love is blind
Love has power, love is mild
for the aged and the child
like the highest castle wall
love's the strongest thing of all
Love is gentle, love is kind
Love knows all and love is blind
Love has power, love is mild
for the aged and the child
like the highest castle wall
love's the strongest thing of all
Love is gentle, love is kind
Love knows all and love is blind
Love has power, love is mild
for the aged and the child
like the highest castle wall
love's the strongest thing of all
Love is gentle, love is kind
Love knows all and love is blind
Love has power, love is mild
for the aged and the child
like the highest castle wall
love's the strongest thing of all
like the highest castle wall
love's the strongest thing of all
END
EPILOG - THE KING HAS SPOKEN instrumental
Play (MIDI)
END
CAST TAKES BOWS
NOTE - This opera is available for
any stage company to produce. It currently
exists as a voice and piano arrangement
on paper. Soon it wil be available as a
synthesized orchestration on cd. Later,
a full score for 22-piece orchestra.
Contact the author for details
bigwes@midcoast.com
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