The Bear
Music & Libretto by Peter Foley
Adapted from the play by Anton Chekhov
A boorish man intrudes on a widow in extended mourning to demand repayment of a debt, and refuses to leave until he’s paid. A battle of wills—and of the sexes—ensues, and pistols are drawn. But firearms turn to fireworks when opposites attract. A light, 15-minute farce.
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One-act operetta, comedy
Cast: 3 (2f, 1m)
Musicians: 1 (Piano)
Performances
Roosevelt University, Chicago, 2007
“Smirnov’s Lament,” performed by Robert Picardo in I Get a Kick Out of Blue, New Amsterdam Theatre, dir. Richard Maltby, Jr., 2000
Opera Limited, Albuquerque, NM, 1998
Triangle Theatre, NYC, dir. John F. Znidarsic, 1994
Hunter College, NYC, 1994
The Golden Fleece, Ltd., The Sanford Meisner Theater, NYC, dir. Lou Rodgers, 1992, 1993
Highlight from the Score
Praise
“A lively setting of the Chekhov play. The music had the imprint of vaudeville or cabaret, teasing absurdity from the text.” – ALEX ROSS, New York Times
Perusals & Licensing
Demo recording and libretto are available for perusal. The Bear may be licensed for performance by arrangement with the Peter Foley Music Project. Please direct inquiries here.