The Shepherd's Play
Music By Richard Shephard
Story and Libretti by Mark Schweizer
also included in The Sewanee Composer's project, Vol. 8
8 minutes
To complete this trilogy, Dr. Shephard has fashioned an entr’acte to be performed between St. Nicholas and Good King Wenceslas
(although this little gem can be performed on its own.) For four male soloists (TTBB), string quartet (or orchestra), flute and offstage
chorus, this dramatic pastorale is reminiscent of Vaughan Williams at his finest.
Cast
Shepherd 1 (Tenor)
Shepherd 2 Baritone
Shepherd 3 Baritone
Shepherd 4 (Tenor)
Angel (Soprano - offstage)
Synopsis
Three of the shepherds are returning from Bethlem and encounter a fourth who questions them about what they saw. As they tell their story and try in vain to mimic the angel’s song they heard on the hillside, once again the heavenly chorus breaks into song. The fourth shepherd is determined to take his gift to the child as well, but as he departs, he is told by the departing trio; “Take whatever gift you will, but he has no need of it. You must give him the gift he desires most. You must give him your heart.”
Click here to download the libretto
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