Król Roger (King Roger)
Setting
Twelfth-century Sicily. King Roger II (1095-1154) was an actual historical figure who ruled the island.
Act I
Often known as the "Byzantine" Act
The Shepherd is introduced to King Roger and his court during mass at the Palermo cathedral. Despite calls for his punishment as a heretic by the Archbishop, Roger's wife, Roksana, convinces the King not to kill him. Roger orders the young man to appear at the palace that night, where he will explain himself and submit to the King's judgement.
Act II
The "Oriental" Act, representing India and the Middle East
As instructed, the Shepherd appears at the palace gates. Roksana sings a beautiful song which is clearly a response to the visitor, causing Roger to grow increasingly agitated. As the Shepherd is led in, he describes his faith in detail and soon almost the entire court joins him in an ecstatic dance. Roger attempts to chain him, but the Shepherd easily breaks free, and leaves the palace with almost all of those assembled following him. At first the King and his Persian advisor, Edrisi are left alone, but soon it is decided that Roger will join the Shepherd.
Act III
The "Greco-Roman" Act
In an ancient Greek theater, King Roger and Edrisi rejoin Roksana, who informs her husband that only the Shepherd can free him of his fear and jealousy. A fire is lit, and the Shepherd's followers commence another dance, while the Shepherd is transformed into Dionysus. As the dance ends and the participants leave the stage, Roger is left reflecting on the experience, and sings a hymn to the rising sun.
Synopsis courtesy of wikipedia.org
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