by lorraine thompson · (arlecchino disagrees with each choice, citing one reason or another....

By Lorraine Thompson

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ARLECCHINO AND THE CITY OF LOVE

By LORRAINE THOMPSON

CAST OF CHARACTERS# of lines

MALES:IL CAPITANO GIOVANNI SPAVENTO MATAMOROS ......arrogant buffoon; seeks to 18

marry GeorginaSIGNORE GIUSEPPE PANTALONE.........................miser; father to Georgina; 19

uncle to IsabellaARLECCHINO ............................servant to any who will hire him; 64

loves ColumbinaLELIO CARNOUCHE ....................foolish young man; loves 16

GeorginaORAZIO GARAVINI ......................loves Isabella; brother to 28

Vittoria (and Giulia)FLORINDO CAVECCHI .................friend of Orazio; loves Vittoria 27PAULO ......................................mute servant of Arlecchino; n/a

loves SpinettaFEMALES:LA BELLA GIULIA PREZIOSO .......stunningly beautiful courtesan; 15

secret sister to OrazioSPINETTA ..................................maid to la Bella Giulia Prezioso; 4

chattyCOLUMBINA ..............................sassy maid to Isabella; loves 48

ArlecchinoGEORGINA ................................spoiled, fi ckle daughter of 38

Pantalone; sometimes lovesLelio

ISABELLA ..................................niece to Pantalone; loves 17Orazio

VITTORIA GARAVINI ....................sister of Orazio; disguised 26as amale; loves Florindo

CORINE ....................................married, nervous friend of 21Vittoria; disguised as ashepherdess

OTHER:THE ZANNI ................................citizens of Venice; also serve n/a

as carnival performers

AUTOGRAPHS

PHOTOCOPYING THIS SCRIPT BREAKS FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAWS

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SETTINGTime: The 18th century, or thereabouts.Place: Venice, the city of love.The play uses fl exible area staging. The original set design consisted of two benches, a fountain and four upright fl ats painted with outdoor scenes of Venice.

ORIGINAL CAST

Arlecchino and the City of Love was fi rst performed in 2008 at Athens Academy in Athens, Georgia.IL CAPITANO GIOVANNI

SPAVENTO MATAMOROS ......CJ BrownSIGNORE GIUSEPPE

PANTALONE.........................Robert LeverettARLECCHINO ............................Chase BrantleyLELIO CARNOUCHE ....................Drew JacobyORAZIO GARAVINI ......................Billy PateFLORINDO CAVECCHI .................Alex BrownPAULO ......................................TJ SterrenbergLA BELLA GIULIA PREZIOSO .......Libby HansenSPINETTA ..................................Anne Lanier GilbertCOLUMBINA ..............................Mary Katherine MaloneGEORGINA ................................Bridgette Duffi eldISABELLA ..................................Ansley McAlisterVITTORIA GARAVINI ....................Christine ShawCORINE ....................................Maggie KellettZANNI .......................................Torie Owers, Karishma Sriram, Sofi e

Wasserman-Smith, Cate Jackson, Nick Bradfi eld, Nick Brown, Tavish Gantz, Kellen Yarbrough, Caroline Peck, Tim DeWitt, Ethan Trice, Sarah Fenno, Margaret Heald


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Scene OneLIGHTS UP: The entire TROUPE ENTERS. ARLECCHINO steps forward to address the AUDIENCE. PAULO is by his side.ARLECCHINO: Ciao! Il mio nome è Arlecchino. Che cosa è il problema?

Non lo capite? No? Ahhhh! Parlate inglese! Hello! My name is Arlecchino. You have heard of me, no? No?! Unbelievable! Well, in that case, my name is Arlecchino the Magnifi cent, Arlecchino the Great, Arlecchino… (PAULO hands ARLECCHINO a piece of paper and he reads from it.) …the Long-Winded. (Looks at PAULO.) You think you are sooo funny. (PAULO smiles and nods.) Perhaps he is right. This is my friend Paulo. He is a man of few words. (Holds up his hands and puts them a little bit apart. PAULO pushes his hands together.) Of no words. But there is much to see, much to do and much to say, so with no further delay… a story. Paulo, which one shall it be today? (PAULO holds out a bag full of scrolls and shrugs. He then points to an AUDIENCE MEMBER.) Ah! Smart boy! We will let one of you choose the story. That way if a poor choice is made it is your fault, not ours. Well, sir, (or madam) what is your name? (AUDIENCE MEMBER gives his or her name.) Ah, Master (or Madam [AUDIENCE MEMBER’S name]), which one shall it be? (ARLECCHINO disagrees with each choice, citing one reason or another. Finally a choice is made. He opens the scroll and reads the title aloud.) “Arlecchino and the City of Love.” Well, (name of AUDIENCE MEMBER), I like the sound of that! Applause for (name of AUDIENCE MEMBER). All we need now is a magical city fi lled with mystery and amore! We need a City of Love! Paulo! (The cue is given and the stage is transformed to a Carnival parade, complete with fountain. The action includes whatever talent you have available, such as spinning plates, walking on stilts, tumbling, sword fi ghting, juggling, etc. Once the stage is set EVERYONE FREEZES in a tableau.) Ah! Carnival time— (Two ZANNI unfurl a banner that reads “Venice.”) —in Venice! I know the city and its inhabitants quite well. Let me introduce you. This enormously wealthy man— (PANTALONE coughs.) This moderately wealthy man— (PANTALONE coughs again.) This man of questionable monetary status… (PANTALONE gives the “okay” sign.) …is Signore Giuseppe Pantalone. His niece, Isabella, sits to his right (ISABELLA and GEORGINA hurriedly switch places.) and his daughter, Georgina, and her fi ancé—

GEORGINA: (Screams.) Lelio! (LELIO rushes to her side.)ARLECCHINO: —are to his left. This gentleman, and I use the

term “gentleman” loosely, is Il Capitano Giovanni Spavento Megamoron.

PANTALONE: Arlecchino!COLUMBINA: She is your niece.ALL: Well?PANTALONE: Oh… all right!ARLECCHINO: Everyone to the church for a wedding! (ALL begins to

leave.)GEORGINA: Wait! Make that two weddings! (ALL begin to leave

again.)FLORINDO: Wait! Vittoria, will you marry me?VITTORIA: Well…. I… (CORINE pushes her toward FLORINDO.) …

Corine!CORINE: Of course she will. (To VITTORIA.) It was meant to be! (VITTORIA

gives her hand to FLORINDO and ALL cheer.)ARLECCHINO: Make the number of weddings three!PANTALONE: I am not feeling well. Perhaps the church will be running a

special. (EVERYONE EXITS except ARLECCHINO and COLUMBINA.)COLUMBINA: My dear Arlecchino, do you love me?ARLECCHINO: As much as Pantalone loves his money! (SOUND

EFFECT: CHURCH BELLS.)COLUMBINA: As much as church bells love a wedding.ARLECCHINO: As much as I love a happy ending!COLUMBINA: Stop right there! I can think of nothing better than that!

(They kiss. Two ZANNI ENTER with a large banner that reads “THE END.”)

END OF PLAY

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CAPTAIN: (Corrects him.) My name is Matamoros, you fool! Il Capitano Giovanni Spavento Matamoros!

ARLECCHINO: My most humble apologies. I stand corrected. Captain Moron here (CAPTAIN reacts angrily.) is seeking to marry into a fortune, since he has none of his own. Single women beware! (Looks toward GIULIA.) Ahhhh! Speaking of single women, this most lovely creature… (GIULIA smiles and bows regally.) …is the courtesan la Bella Giulia Prezioso. Her beauty causes all other women to fade away. Now new to our city are two young men… (Overlooking SPINETTA, he indicates ORAZIO and FLORINDO. SPINETTA clears her throat to get his attention.) See what I mean? This is her maid, Spinetta. (SPINETTA begins to ad-lib to the AUDIENCE about how everyone forgets her because her mistress is so beautiful.) She tends to be a bit chatty. (PAULO shoots him a look but then gestures “a little bit.”) She is also the keeper of Paulo’s heart. (He gestures “a little bit.” ARLECCHINO expands the gesture to “a lot” and PAULO nods and blushes.) Now, new to our little city are two young men from Bergamo, Orazio and his true friend, Florindo, and a young sister, Corine, and brother, Vittoria.

VITTORIA: Ahem! It’s Victor!ARLECCHINO: Ahem, it’s Victor. So now the scene has been set and

you have met all those worthy of knowing… (ALL EXIT except for ARLECCHINO, PAULO and COLUMBINA, who is left standing alone UPSTAGE. She realizes that she has been forgotten and this irritates her. PAULO notices this and tries to alert ARLECCHINO. PAULO tugs at his sleeve.) Not now, Paulo… (He tugs again.) Paulo, can’t you see that I am talking to the people… (COLUMBINA switches places with PAULO and tugs.) Whatever it is I am sure that it isn’t important. (Turns to face her. Surprised.) Columbina! My dear, my sweet, my love…

COLUMBINA: “Not important,” eh? (Takes off his hat and hits him.) Already introduced those “worth knowing,” eh? (Hits him.) “Most lovely creature and all others fade away,” eh?! (Hits him multiple times, shoves his hat and storms OFF.)

ARLECCHINO: That is Isabella’s maid, Columbina. She is crazy about me. Columbina! (Moves to follow her. PAULO moves with him.)

FLORINDO: (ENTERS with ORAZIO.) My good man! Wait.ARLECCHINO: (Looks OFFSTAGE toward COLUMBINA and back to the

men.) I am sorry, I must be on my way.ORAZIO: We are willing to make payment for your time and service.ARLECCHINO: (Stops.) Payment?FLORINDO: The amount will, of course, depend on the amount of your

help.

VITTORIA: It isn’t as strange as it may seem! During our engagement, her father married my mother. So you see we are both brother and sister and—

CORINE: Man and wife! Come, Brother-Husband, let’s go!FLORINDO: (Sees VITTORIA.) You there, messenger! Stop!VITTORIA: Florindo! (As she turns around her hat falls to unveil her

identity.)CORINE: Vittoria!ALL: Vittoria?FLORINDO: Vittoria!ARLECCHINO/COLUMBINA/LELIO/GEORGINA: He’s a woman!LELIO: (To CORINE.) You married a woman?ARLECCHINO: This makes my wearing a dress look ordinary!ALL: You wear dresses?COLUMBINA: Only when I ask him to!ALL: What?!PANTALONE: (ENTERS with CAPTAIN.) My dear Captain! Wait! There

must be some mistake!CAPTAIN: I’ll say so! An almost fatal one! Good-bye, sir.PANTALONE: You can’t just leave! What about your money—I mean,

your bride-to-be?CAPTAIN: You may keep her and with my condolences! I may not be a

spring chicken … but I am too young to die! (EXITS.)PANTALONE: But I’ve already paid for the wedding!ORAZIO: (ENTERS with GIULIA and SPINETTA.) Florindo, what is going

on? Corine? Vittoria?! What are you doing here? And why are you dressed in those ridiculous costumes? A shepherdess and a…

FLORINDO: A messenger. The same messenger who traveled many miles to ensure delivery of your loved one’s letters.

VITTORIA: Don’t be angry, brother. Isabella’s letters were lost en route before and I did not want to risk having them lost again.

GEORGINA: Your love is Isabella? (Pulls ISABELLA from the back of the CROWD.) This Isabella?

ORAZIO: No other.ISABELLA: What about your new love, Giulia Prezioso?GIULIA: My dear, his affections toward me are as… to a sister. He

has but one heart, and it belongs to you. (ISABELLA and ORAZIO embrace.)

ARLECCHINO: (Approaches PANTALONE.) Lucky that Master Pantalone has already paid for a wedding!


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ARLECCHINO: (Looks OFFSTAGE toward COLUMBINA and then looks back to the MEN. Decides to help.) She can wait. How can I, your humble servant Arlecchino, be of assistance to you kind and most generous sirs? Perhaps you wish a guide for the Carnival festivities? (PAULO opens a panel on his tunic to reveal a billboard for a carnival guide. GIULIA and SPINETTA ENTER UPSTAGE. GIULIA listens as the scene develops and is intrigued by ORAZIO’S story.)

ORAZIO: Arlecchino! Arlecchino! We are not in need of a carnival guide! I am Orazio Garavini and this is my good friend Florindo Cavecchi. We are seeking a jewel. The most beautiful jewel of Venice. Do you know of such a stone?

ARLECCHINO: (Pretends to be thinking. To AUDIENCE.) I know nothing of this jewel, but I want these two to know nothing of my knowing nothing or my pay will be of equal worth… nothing. (Turns back to the MEN.) Of course I know of this precious gem! Why, every true Venetian’s heart swells in patriotic pride at the mere mention of its radiant beauty.

ORAZIO: Wonderful! Where may we see it?ARLECCHINO: See it? (To PAULO.) They want to see it.FLORINDO: Is there a problem with our seeing it?ARLECCHINO: (Holds up the “little bit” sign and PAULO makes it bigger.

To PAULO.) Ha! An idea. (To the MEN.) Problem? No problem! It is just that we Venetians are very protective of our native gemstone. We don’t allow just anyone to see it. I will need a letter of formal introduction and, of course, my payment.

FLORINDO: Your payment? But you have not yet done anything!ORAZIO: Of course, Arlecchino. A letter of introduction and your

payment. We will return momentarily with all that you require. (Pulls FLORINDO to the side.)

FLORINDO: Orazio…ORAZIO: My dear Florindo, the sooner I can fulfi ll my father’s last

wishes and fi nd this precious lost jewel, the sooner I can begin to search for my dear Isabella. If this man says he can help, I say we let him.

FLORINDO: You are my dearest friend, Orazio, and you know that I will help you in any way I can. But Isabella left Bergamo without leaving you so much as a letter. How can you know that your Isabella is here in Venice and that she remains true?

ORAZIO: My heart knows, Florindo. And my heart will lead me to her. If you were in love you would understand. Now give Arlecchino his letter and his money and then join me in the market square, and we will attempt to fi nd lodging. (EXITS.)

ISABELLA: And she returns this undying love?ORAZIO: (Looks at the letters.) She does. (ISABELLA begins to leave.

ORAZIO moves to stop her.) Madam…ISABELLA: (Hopeful.) Yes?ORAZIO: (He is very attracted to her. They stare at each other for a

moment. He realizes what he is doing and feels he is betraying his love… he does not realize it is ISABELLA he is speaking to.) I must bid you good night. (EXITS.)

ISABELLA: Good night and good-bye.GEORGINA: (ENTERS with LELIO.) So all is mended?LELIO: If you promise to remain faithful to me.GEORGINA: I promise!LELIO: No other men.GEORGINA: You are the only man for me. Mended?LELIO: Well, I suppose if we are to be married, I should say…

mended!GEORGINA: (Squeals and they hug. Notices ISABELLA and crosses to

her excitedly.) Isabella! Lelio and I—Isabella, why are you crying? Oh! What to do? Lelio, fi nd Columbina. She will help. (LELIO EXITS.) Oh, my dear cousin, please stop crying!

ISABELLA: Georgina, I saw him. He loves another. He told me so himself! What am I to do without him?

GEORGINA: Oh, Isabella! If Orazio does not value your love… you will just have to fi nd a man who does! (CORINE and VITTORIA ENTER from the CROWD. GEORGINA gets an idea.) A man with good taste, fi ne shoulders and a very nice tailor. (Crosses to VITTORIA. LELIO, ARLECCHINO, PAULO and COLUMBINA ENTER.) Excuse me, sir, are you single?

LELIO: (Hears GEORGINA speaking to VITTORIA in disguise.) Georgina! Have you no self-control? I have been gone only seconds and you have already moved on to another! You should know that two can play at that game! (Takes CORINE in his arms, dips her and kisses her.)

GEORGINA: Lelio!CORINE: Unhand me, sir! I am a married woman!LELIO: Married to whom?VITTORIA: (Nervous.) To me!COLUMBINA: I thought she was your sister!ARLECCHINO/GEORGINA/LELIO: You married your sister?CORINE: No! I… We…


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FLORINDO: (To AUDIENCE.) I understand all too well the effects of love. He need look no further than his own sister to see my heart’s desire. But that is for another day… if it is meant to be. (Speaks to ARLECCHINO with a bit of intimidation as he hands him a moneybag and letter.) Arlecchino!

GIULIA: (Walks DOWNSTAGE with SPINETTA.) I am very interested in these young men, Spinetta. Especially in the one named Orazio Garavini.

SPINETTA: Oh, yes, Mistress, he is quite handsome. The other isn’t bad either. Not exactly my type, you know… I prefer the strong, silent ones.

GIULIA: (Smiles at SPINETTA.) I see… but that is not the reason for my interest. On rare occasions there is more to a man than his looks or his bank account. Spinetta, I need you to do something for me. (Whispers in SPINETTA’S ear.)

FLORINDO: (To ARLECCHINO.) I am off to join Orazio in the market square. We will be in touch. (EXITS after ORAZIO, passing by GIULIA.)

ARLECCHINO: And now to my Columbina! (Moves to leave.)SPINETTA: (Stops him.) Master Arlecchino!ARLECCHINO: I have no time, Spinetta. I really must be going. (PAULO

pleads with him silently.) She can wait. (To SPINETTA.) What is it, my dear?

SPINETTA: I do not wish to keep you from your urgent errand. It is just that my mistress, la Bella Giulia Prezioso, wishes a word with you.

ARLECCHINO: (Glances OFFSTAGE toward COLUMBINA and then at GIULIA. She curtseys.) She can wait. (Crosses to GIULIA.) My dear Madame Prezioso, how can I assist you?

GIULIA: My dear, kind Arlecchino, I am seeking information on the two travelers to whom I saw you speaking. Do you know much about them? I would be most grateful for any news you may have gathered about their origin or their purpose.

ARLECCHINO: Most grateful? (To AUDIENCE.) I am having a good day! (To GIULIA.) I know their purpose is the search for a rare jewel.

GIULIA: A jewel, you say?ARLECCHINO: Yes, one of rare beauty. And as to their origin, I just

happen to have a letter of introduction for Sir Orazio himself. It is yours for the taking, my dear. (Tries to kiss her hand but she takes the letter and avoids the kiss.)

GIULIA: Ah! This is wonderful. My dear Arlecchino, there is something else…

FLORINDO: The lost letters of Isabella.ORAZIO: But how did you…?FLORINDO: Vittoria sent them by courier as soon as they surfaced. He

was quite memorable, that messenger. Something about him was so familiar… (Realizes that it was VITTORIA in disguise.) I must fi nd that messenger! (EXITS as the carnival ENTERS, composed of the entire TROUPE, some in masks. GEORGINA and ISABELLA ENTER from the CROWD. They are in masks. The ZANNI serve as carnival performers with various talents, as before. The atmosphere needs to be festive and bright and fun. This interlude can be underscored by lively MUSIC. PAULO and SPINETTA are in the crowd watching this performance. Two ZANNI grab them and trick them into dancing with each other. This seals their romance and they EXIT the scene as a couple. The remaining PLAYERS tone down the action and mime silent conversations in the background. GEORGINA and ISABELLA cross DOWNSTAGE.)

GEORGINA: I do so love the Carnival! The fresh air and festivities will do you good. It is too wonderful a night for you to be alone in your room. There is Lelio! How do I look?

ISABELLA: (Pulls her mask up off her face.) As lovely as ever. Go to him. And Georgina, whatever you do, don’t let him go. (GEORGINA kisses ISABELLA on the cheek and crosses to LELIO. He sees GEORGINA and EXITS. GEORGINA follows him OFF. ISABELLA sees ORAZIO sitting at a bench or table. He is looking at her letters, but she does not see this. To AUDIENCE.) It is he! My Orazio! Only he is mine no longer. He belongs to another now. (Lowers her mask to cover her face and walks to where he is sitting.) The piazza is so crowded. Might I join you?

ORAZIO: As you wish.ISABELLA: Are you new to Venice? I would remember a face such as

yours.ORAZIO: Yes, my arrival was quite recent.ISABELLA: I hope you are fi nding our city to your liking. It is, after all,

the City of Love.ORAZIO: It is most beautiful. (Looks at her for the fi rst time.) As are

its women.ISABELLA: The women of Venice interest you?ORAZIO: Madam, I do not mean to abuse your charms. But I have

interest for only one.ISABELLA: I see. Is your lady beautiful?ORAZIO: Her beauty is beyond compare. She is the most beautiful

woman in Italy and I am hers forever.

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ARLECCHINO: Anything, my dear, anything at all.GIULIA: Here is an invitation for lodging at my home. (Hands him an

invitation.)ARLECCHINO: An invitation to lodge at your house! (To AUDIENCE.) Did

I mention my day was going well?GIULIA: I see no need for our two young travelers to stay in a hotel

when my villa boasts many extra rooms. They will be my guests. Thank you, my sweet Arlecchino. (COLUMBINA ENTERS. GIULIA kisses ARLECCHINO on the cheek just in time for COLUMBINA to see.) Come, Spinetta, we have much to do before our guests arrive. (EXITS.)

COLUMBINA: Sweet Arlecchino, eh?! (Slaps him with his hat and storms OFF. ARLECCHINO follows her OFF, calling after her. PAULO and SPINETTA are left facing each other ONSTAGE. He waves at her. She waves back. He motions that he has to leave and waves again. She watches him EXIT, heaving a lovesick sigh.)

SPINETTA: Now that is a man! (EXITS.)End of Scene One

Scene TwoISABELLA, GEORGINA and LELIO ENTER. LELIO is reading a book. GEORGINA carries a parasol.GEORGINA: Ah, Isabella, you should be so lucky as to fi nd a man

as perfect as my Lelio. (Sighs.) Just look at him. (LELIO is being bothered by a bee.) While he is not quite tall enough… he is tall without being too tall. He has little muscle but he is lean without being fat. And although he lacks basic understanding… he is dimly bright without being too intelligent. Above all, he worships and adores me! A very important quality when looking for a husband. And the fact that he is set to inherit a fortune does not hurt either. On the whole, I think I have done quite well for myself. (LELIO swats at the bee and falls down.) Oh, but how cruel of me to go on so about my betrothed when your intended has abandoned you to be hopelessly alone.

ISABELLA: Georgina, do not worry on my account. It is true that I have not heard from my beloved Orazio since my move to Venice after my father’s passing. However, he has been away at sea for these months. I am sure upon his return, he will travel immediately to be by my side.

GEORGINA: But how will he know where to fi nd you, my dear? And how will he know that you desire to be reunited? I know that I would not seek out one so eager to move away from me while my heart was breaking upon the waves of a distant ocean!

CAPTAIN: She killed him?GEORGINA: The offi cial report said it was an “accident,” but…COLUMBINA/GEORGINA: Yes!ARLECCHINO: Well? Which one?!CAPTAIN: Well, I… um… (Looks to COLUMBINA and GEORGINA for

guidance. They are pointing to different features.)LELIO: (ENTERS.) Stop right there!GEORGINA: Lelio! What are you doing here?LELIO: (He mistakes GEORGINA for ARLECCHINO.) Out of my way,

Arlecchino! I have come to enlighten this man on the character of his intended! Captain, do not be deceived by this lovely creature’s sweet demeanor. She is cold and cunning. She will rip your heart from you and leave you to die a slow and solitary death. She has done it before and she will do it again! Her beauty is only shadowed by her cruelty! Beware! Beware! (To AUDIENCE.) I feel much better now. (EXITS.)

CAPTAIN: (To COLUMBINA.) Who was that?COLUMBINA: A survivor.CAPTAIN: My! Look at the time! I must be on my way. It was so nice

to meet you, Mistress Georgina. We must do this again and soon! Good day! (EXITS.)

GEORGINA: Good riddance! (Hugs COLUMBINA.) Oh, Columbina! Arlecchino! (Moves to hug him; he thinks twice with COLUMBINA there and shakes her hand.) How can I ever thank you?

COLUMBINA: I think the one you owe thanks to is Master Lelio.GEORGINA: He was wonderful, wasn’t he? So strong and forceful! I

was wrong to let him go! I must fi nd him and tell him so!ARLECCHINO: Mistress Georgina, my clothes!GEORGINA: Of course! Let us tell Isabella of our wonderful success!

She is in need of good news. (They EXIT.)End of Scene Eleven

Scene TwelveORAZIO ENTERS, followed by FLORINDO.FLORINDO: Orazio! I have news.ORAZIO: As do I, Florindo. My search for the lost jewel is complete. I

have fulfi lled all promises to my father and am now free to search for my Isabella.

FLORINDO: These may help you in your quest. (Hands ORAZIO the packet of letters.)

ORAZIO: Letters?

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ISABELLA: Orazio will understand. He will know of my unwavering love from the many letters I have sent. In them I have explained my father’s unexpected death and my necessary move from Bergamo to Venice. I am sure that he will seek me. Of his love and devotion I have no doubt. (Smiles.) And while he is not the man Lelio is, I too feel that I have done quite well for myself.

GEORGINA: Oh, you poor dear, of course you do. Lelio! I am ready to stroll the market square. So many have not had the fortune of seeing me today. You may walk behind me and hold my parasol. I know how much it pleases you to do so.

LELIO: Oh, thank you, my dear! I shall do my best to protect your delicate features from the fi erce sun and to shield your eyes from any—

GEORGINA: Lelio! Just hold the parasol! (ALL EXIT.)End of Scene Two

Scene ThreeVITTORIA and CORINE ENTER.CORINE: Mistress Vittoria, I still do not see why we are dressed so—I

as a shepherdess and you as my brother. It is shameful! And as if it could not be worse, we are in the sinful city of Venice! If my mother-in-law, Donna Lucia, were to see us now she would not think it proper or Christian!

VITTORIA: Corine, Donna Lucia is a sour old woman with the complexion of a prune. There is nothing un-Christian about our mission.

CORINE: But these clothes!VITTORIA: We are dressed in such a manner for our own protection. It

is not safe for two noble women to travel such a distance without a male companion.

CORINE: But Venice!VITTORIA: Venice is no more full of sin than any other city fi lled with

people. I know my brother, Orazio, is here and I am sure Isabella is as well. Let me see her letters once again.

CORINE: (Hands a packet of letters to VITTORIA.) Their story is so very sad, don’t you think? Isabella’s father dying while her love, Orazio, is at sea. He returning home to fi nd her gone. Her letters of undying devotion lost, never to be found…

VITTORIA: Corine!CORINE: Except by the new letter carrier, and then of course by you.VITTORIA: That is why we must fi nd my brother and his love and deliver

these letters. Isabella and Orazio were meant to be together.

GEORGINA: If your plan works, Columbina, I will be free of the captain forever!

COLUMBINA: Speaking of the captain, he will be here soon. Arlecchino, do as we discussed and all will be well. Here he comes. (CAPTAIN ENTERS. ARLECCHINO takes his seat. GEORGINA stands next to him.) Why, you must be the captain.

CAPTAIN: (Looks COLUMBINA over and takes her hand to kiss it.) Yes, madam, Capitano Giovanni Spavento Matamoros, my dear. But you… (Pulls her in.) …may call me—

ARLECCHINO: (Jealous of someone moving in on his woman. In falsetto.) Captain Moron, I presume. Well, don’t just stand there like a statue. Come here!

COLUMBINA: My Mistress Georgina has been eagerly anticipating your arrival. You had best not keep her waiting… I would hate for anything to happen to you so early in the relationship.

CAPTAIN: Happen to me?COLUMBINA: Happen to you.CAPTAIN: Happen to me?COLUMBINA: Mistress Georgina, may I present the illustrious Captain

Giovanni.ARLECCHINO: Captain Moron… yes, I know!CAPTAIN: Matamoros, my lovely, Capitano Giovanni Spavento

Matamoros. An easy mistake, I am sure.ARLECCHINO: Mistake? I, sir, am Georgina Smeraldina Cossatina

Pantalone! I do not make mistakes. The error must belong to you! And what kind of a man would not know his own name, I ask you? Not a very clever one, I’ll tell you that. Arlecchino!

GEORGINA: Oh! That’s me!ARLECCHINO: My handkerchief! (GEORGINA hands him a hanky.)

Thank you. My father tells me that you wish my hand in marriage… is this true?

CAPTAIN: Well… yes, my dear lady… your beauty and charm are known across Italy. (ARLECCHINO blows his nose quite loudly.) I would consider myself lucky indeed to have you as my bride.

ARLECCHINO: (Hands the dirty handkerchief to the CAPTAIN.) Well, of course you would! You may be stupid, but you are certainly not completely void of intellect. Which of my features pleases you the most?

COLUMBINA: (Brings CAPTAIN DOWNSTAGE, assisted by GEORGINA.) Careful how you answer this… her last suitor was not.

COLUMBINA/GEORGINA: May he rest in peace. (They make the sign of the cross and bow their heads.)


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VITTORIA/CORINE: And I am all for making things as they are meant to be!

CORINE: And if we should meet a certain Master Florindo while on our quest…

VITTORIA: Corine! Seeing Master Florindo, while I would not regret it, is not the purpose of our journey. Now, according to Isabella’s last letter she is staying with her uncle, Giuseppe Pantalone. Come, Corine! (They EXIT.)

End of Scene Three

Scene FourGIULIA and SPINETTA ENTER and sit. ORAZIO and FLORINDO ENTER and see them.ORAZIO: Perhaps it was a mistake.FLORINDO: Arlecchino was very insistent that the invitation was

meant for us.ORAZIO: I don’t even know her!FLORINDO: I do not see that we have much choice. We have inquired

at every inn and there is not an available room to be found. Her invitation is our only hope of comfortable lodgings.

ORAZIO: Yes, but she is a courtesan!FLORINDO: I really do not see another option. (ORAZIO agrees and

they approach GIULIA.)ORAZIO: Mistress Giulia Prezioso? My name is Orazio Garavini.GIULIA: Yes, I know.ORAZIO: I was given a message from Arlecchino that you have kindly

offered my friend and I lodging during our stay in your fair city.GIULIA: Ah, Master Orazio… I have been waiting for you. (Offers him

her hand and he kisses it.) I would consider it a great honor if you would accept my invitation. My maid and I have already made arrangements for your rooms. They are awaiting your arrival.

ORAZIO: We are most appreciative of your offer and we accept it with grateful hearts.

GIULIA: (Offers ORAZIO her arm.) The pleasure is mine—I assure you. (ORAZIO looks nervously at FLORINDO. ALL EXIT.)

End of Scene Four

Scene FiveCAPTAIN and PANTALONE ENTER.PANTALONE: Oh, my dear Captain, how fortunate I am to have met

you today.

COLUMBINA: Good! Now come, we have much to do to prepare you for your date. (They EXIT.)

End of Scene Nine

Scene TenORAZIO and GIULIA ENTER. ORAZIO holds a letter and a small portrait of a man.ORAZIO: Amazing. Had the story not been written by my father’s own

hand, I would not have believed it to be true. You are the precious jewel I seek? Of course… you are Giulia Prezioso.

GIULIA: The same. So now you see why your visit intrigued me and why I insisted you and your friend stay with me. You seem bewildered.

ORAZIO: Have you always known?GIULIA: No. My mother was Italy’s most celebrated courtesan. She

was a woman of many secrets. I did not discover that letter and portrait until after her death. It was then I learned of your father.

ORAZIO: Our father.GIULIA: Orazio, it is important for you to understand that I want nothing

from you or your estate. It was his wish—and hers—that we be united. But it is my wish that our reunion remain a secret. My life does not lend itself well to… family.

ORAZIO: If that is truly your wish, the world need not know.GIULIA: Thank you. (They EXIT.)

End of Scene Ten

Scene ElevenCOLUMBINA ENTERS with GEORGINA and ARLECCHINO. GEORGINA is leading ARLECCHINO, who is dressed as a woman in an enormous puffy dress and carrying a fan. GEORGINA is dressed as ARLECCHINO. She is enjoying this. ARLECCHINO is not.GEORGINA: Oh, come here, you fl owering beauty. You precious little

dumpling!COLUMBINA: Mistress, I am not sure you should be here.GEORGINA: I would not miss this for the world.ARLECCHINO: I would.GEORGINA: What are you saying? My mother’s dress never looked so

wonderful!ARLECCHINO: You don’t think it makes my hips look big?COLUMBINA: You look as handsome as ever. (Tries to kiss his cheek

but the pannier gets in the way.)


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CAPTAIN: (To AUDIENCE.) I am hoping it will be fortunate for me as well.PANTALONE: I have heard much of your heroic acts of valor and

patriotism as of late. In fact, I received another letter singing your praises just today… from the same Signore Anonomoose.

CAPTAIN: I know him well. (To AUDIENCE.) As well as I know myself. (To PANTALONE.) Yes, my friend, fate has smiled on us both. I have long desired to meet the great Giuseppe Pantalone.

PANTALONE: You have desired to meet me?CAPTAIN: Yes, of course! Who has not heard of your faithful service

to our king, your dedication to community, (To AUDIENCE.) your fastidious management of your fortune, (To PANTALONE.) and of course of the staggering beauty of your unmarried daughter?

PANTALONE: She is said to look like me, you know. We Pantalones are known for our good looks as well as our brains.

CAPTAIN: It is quite apparent to me that your looks and your brains are equals in the scheme of yourself. (To AUDIENCE.) If the girl is as stupid and vain as her father, acquiring her fortune should be easy, and leaving her even easier. (To PANTALONE.) It is your daughter, my dear sir, I wish to speak to you about. I would like to formally ask for her hand in marriage. Since ending my days of glory at war, my retirement leaves me with one remaining wish. To fi nd myself a sweet… (To AUDIENCE.) …and very rich… (To PANTALONE.) …wife and start a little family.

PANTALONE: (To AUDIENCE.) Did I hear him say he is very rich? Oh, goody! (To CAPTAIN.) So you profi ted from your many years at war? Captured much booty and all that?

CAPTAIN: (Misunderstands.) Oh! My dear Pantalone! While women do fi nd me irresistible, I never kiss and tell! (PANTALONE is confused.) No, but I did of course gain monetarily. I have pillaged, plundered and pinched! (To AUDIENCE.) Though not a penny have I left. (To PANTALONE.) I am profoundly proud of my purloined profi ts!

PANTALONE: Oh, my! My daughter will most certainly be delighted to receive a proposal from one such as yourself! A handsome, mature and not to mention rich retired member of the Royal Army! I welcome you to the family! I will tell my daughter of this joyous union immediately. You may meet with her later this very day to seal your betrothal!

CAPTAIN: Good day, sir! (EXITS with a bow.)PANTALONE: (To AUDIENCE.) There is going to be a wedding! A very

profi table one at that! Now, to make the arrangements and tell Georgina of my—our—good fortune! (EXITS.)

End of Scene Five

Scene NineARLECCHINO: (ENTERS, running, with COLUMBINA.) Columbina! Why

are we in such a hurry?COLUMBINA: We must help Mistress Georgina.ARLECCHINO: But how?COLUMBINA: Think!ARLECCHINO/COLUMBINA: (Cross to opposite sides of the stage. They

each turn as if they have an idea and then realize they don’t.) No… (They switch sides again, thinking.)

ARLECCHINO: I have it! I once read a play where the young bride-to-be was in a similar situation. She was given a sleeping potion by a religious man. The plan was to feign death and then to wake in a tomb where her lover, Romeo—

COLUMBINA: Romeo? (Hits him.) We don’t want Georgina dead! Next time fi nish reading! Think!

ARLECCHINO/COLUMBINA: (Cross to opposite sides of the stage again. They each turn again.) No… (They pace back and forth.)

COLUMBINA: I have it! Since she can’t break the engagement… he must!

ARLECCHINO: Why would he do a thing like that? Have you seen her? (She shoots him an angry look and he realizes his error.) I mean… some men like her sort of beauty. I myself have barely noticed her shapely fi gure, smooth complexion and large… (COLUMBINA fi xes him with a cold stare.) …eyes. I was going to say eyes! My point is, how do we get him to break the engagement?

COLUMBINA: What if she wasn’t attractive?ARLECCHINO: What?COLUMBINA: What if Georgina wasn’t really Georgina at all? He has

never seen her.ARLECCHINO: This is right!COLUMBINA: This is to be their fi rst meeting. Someone else should

go in her place!ARLECCHINO: I like!COLUMBINA: Someone with less appeal.ARLECCHINO: Ugly!COLUMBINA: What if… (Whispers in his ear the plan.)ARLECCHINO: (Appalled.) No! Absolutely not!COLUMBINA: Arlecchino… (Pulls him in and walks her fi ngers up his

chest.) …do you love me?ARLECCHINO: As much as a lion loves his pride.

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Scene SixARLECCHINO: (ENTERS with COLUMBINA.) So, you see, my dear, it

was all a misunderstanding. You know that you are the only one for me! You are my Columbina! And am I not your Arlecchino?

COLUMBINA: Sometimes it is hard to tell!ARLECCHINO: Now, my precious…COLUMBINA: Arlecchino, tell me truly, do you love me?ARLECCHINO: Love… what is love?COLUMBINA: Arlecchino, do you love me?ARLECCHINO: As much as boys love to boast.COLUMBINA: And I, as much as ladies love to dance.ARLECCHINO: As much as shepherds love their sheep.COLUMBINA: As much as lovers love to kiss. (They kiss under the

cover of his hat.)ARLECCHINO: Now that is love! Now, my dumpling, I must be on my

way to inform Madame Prezioso that I delivered her message to the young man, Orazio Garavini.

COLUMBINA: Orazio Garavini! I know him well! He is betrothed to my mistress, Isabella! She will be so happy to know that he is in Venice! And she was worried that he had found another! (ISABELLA ENTERS. COLUMBINA sees her and starts to move toward her. ARLECCHINO tries in vain to stop COLUMBINA.) Mistress Isabella!

ARLECCHINO: Columbina, this is not the best time—ISABELLA: What is it, my dear Columbina? Is something wrong?COLUMBINA: No, Mistress, quite the contrary! My Arlecchino has

wonderful news for you! Tell her, Arlecchino!ARLECCHINO: Well… I am sure that your mistress is very busy. This

can wait.COLUMBINA: What are you saying? Tell her!ISABELLA: Tell me!ARLECCHINO: Well… you see, my lady… today I just happened to

meet—COLUMBINA: Orazio! Arlecchino met Master Orazio here in Venice!ISABELLA: My Orazio? Orazio Garavini? Oh, Arlecchino, that is

wonderful! Where might I fi nd him? I will go to him immediately.ARLECCHINO: Go to him? I don’t think that would be the best idea

at the moment… (Rushes her to sit on a bench.) Let’s just sit here and look at the scenery.

COLUMBINA: Arlecchino! What are you doing?ARLECCHINO: We are looking at the scenery.

VITTORIA: We must deliver these letters to my brother at once! If anyone walks down the aisle with Isabella it should be him! (They start to move on, but see FLORINDO ENTER, approaching.) Corine! It is he!

CORINE: Orazio?VITTORIA: No, Master Florindo! How do I look?CORINE: Manly.VITTORIA: Oh! I cannot have him see me like this!CORINE: Too late! Here he comes…FLORINDO: Excuse me, sir.CORINE: …and here I go! (Hides.)VITTORIA: Corine! (Lowers her voice and covers her face with her hat.)

Yes, sir, how may I be of service?FLORINDO: I was wondering if you could help me fi nd a man by the

name of Arlecchino. I believe he lives around here.VITTORIA: Alas, I know no one of that name.FLORINDO: Sorry to have bothered you. Thank you for your time.CORINE: (Peeks out of her hiding place and whispers to VITTORIA.) Ask

him where your brother is staying!VITTORIA: Sir! I was wondering if you could help me fi nd a man by the

name of Orazio Garavini.FLORINDO: Orazio Garavini? Why are you in need of him?VITTORIA: His sister bid me deliver this bundle of letters to the

master.FLORINDO: (Lovingly.) His sister? Tell me… is she well?VITTORIA: Actually, sir, she is not feeling herself lately… (Looks to him

lovingly.) …but I am sure that will pass upon your return home.FLORINDO: (Excited.) My return? Or her brother’s?VITTORIA: (Realizes she is saying too much.) Both, I am sure. (Holds

out the packet of letters.) The letters, sir?FLORINDO: I will take them. (Takes them.) If they are from Vittoria I am

sure he will want to see them. (Moves to leave but then turns back to VITTORIA.) Have we met before? You look most familiar.

VITTORIA: No, I do not believe so. (Lovingly.) I am sure I would remember such a face as yours.

FLORINDO: Very well. Good day. (EXITS.)CORINE: Quick, we must follow him!VITTORIA: Follow him? I barely survived seeing him!CORINE: He is sure to lead us to your brother. Hurry before we lose

him! (They EXIT after him.)End of Scene Eight

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COLUMBINA: Tell my mistress where her love is sleeping.ARLECCHINO: Sleeping? Well… you see… he is with… I mean…

he…COLUMBINA/ISABELLA: Arlecchino!ARLECCHINO: He is lodging with the courtesan la Bella Giulia Prezioso,

the most beautiful woman in Italy!ISABELLA: La Bella Giulia Prezioso? There must be some mistake!ARLECCHINO: No mistake, my lady, I delivered her invitation myself.

(ISABELLA EXITS, crying.)COLUMBINA: Have you no heart?! Whatever would possess you to tell

her such a thing? Mistress Isabella! (EXITS.)ARLECCHINO: (Name of AUDIENCE MEMBER that picked the story),

this is all your fault! Columbina! (EXITS.)End of Scene Six

Scene SevenGEORGINA, LELIO and PANTALONE ENTER. LELIO is still shielding GEORGINA with her parasol.GEORGINA: Never! Never! Never! My heart belongs to Lelio and I will

have no other!PANTALONE: My dear Georgina! Be reasonable. I have already paid

for the wedding!GEORGINA: Reasonable?! I am a woman in love, Papa. I am past

all reason! I will not marry this other gentleman and that is fi nal. Lelio is the only man for me! I would die before wedding another! Nothing you can say will sway me! I am resolved!

LELIO: Resolved!PANTALONE: Very well, my sweet… I will send word to the illustrious

Capitano Giovanni Spavento Matamoros that the wedding is off.GEORGINA: Yes, you do that! (A pause.) Did you say Captain Giovanni

Spavento Matamoros? He is not by chance an offi cer of the Royal Army, is he?

PANTALONE: What does it matter? I will let him know that the famous beauty of Venice, Georgina Pantalone, will not have him! And all the medals, kingly honors and heroic acts in the world could not change her mind. She is resolved.

LELIO: (Not so confi dently.) Resolved!GEORGINA: (To LELIO.) Yes, yes, you are correct! (To PANTALONE.) Did

he himself call me a famous beauty?LELIO: Georgina!

GEORGINA: I am just trying to be polite toward the gentleman. (To PANTALONE.) His medals… are they especially numerous? And is his uniform especially fi ne?

LELIO: Really, Georgina, this is all too much! Which will it be—the highly decorated heroic captain of the King’s Royal Army or me?

GEORGINA: Decisions, decisions… Lelio, I at least owe it to my father to meet this captain. (To AUDIENCE.) I do so love a man in uniform! (To LELIO.) And Papa has already paid for the wedding.

PANTALONE: And it wasn’t cheap!GEORGINA: See!LELIO: Too much! Too much to believe or to bear! Good-bye, Georgina…

forever! (Starts to leave, then realizes he still has the parasol. Returns the parasol to GEORGINA, then EXITS.)

GEORGINA: I think that went rather well, don’t you?PANTALONE: Very well, indeed. Georgina, you are going to make an

old man quite happy.GEORGINA: I am so pleased you will be happy, Papa.PANTALONE: Oh, I will be. But I was not speaking of myself. I was

speaking of the captain. (EXITS.)GEORGINA: The captain? Old? Lelio! Columbina!! (EXITS.)

End of Scene Seven

Scene EightCORINE ENTERS with VITTORIA, who is consulting a map of Venice.CORINE: We seem to be walking in circles. I don’t know why you won’t

just ask for directions. I fear that you are becoming more male by the minute.

VITTORIA: All right! (COLUMBINA rushes ON.) Excuse me, miss! My sister and I were wondering if you would kindly point us to the villa of Signore Giuseppe Pantalone?

COLUMBINA: Oh! I am a servant from this house, sir, but I am afraid this is not a good time for you and your sister to visit.

VITTORIA: No one is ill, I hope?COLUMBINA: Oh, no, sir! But the young miss is highly distressed.

She is being forced to marry an older man she does not love while her true love has abandoned her! She is beside herself with grief! Pardon me, but I really must be on my way! (EXITS.)

CORINE: Oh, how terrible! Isabella is being forced to marry against her heart’s wishes and she thinks Orazio has abandoned her! What are we to do?


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