Background

Question 1

Music by?

Lyrics by?

Answer 1

Stephen Sondheim

Question 2

When and where is it set?

Answer 2

Sweden around 1900

Question 3

What is the story act 1

Answer 3

Romantic story of several couples - all with wrong partner
Frederick married Anna,
Desiree ageing touring actress - lover of Frederick a long time ago
Act 1 F&D meet again
D having affair with count Carl Magnus
Me arnfeldt arranges dinner for all

Question 4

Act 2

Answer 4

The dinner and aftermath
Everyone changes partner
Mostly happy ending for everyone
Chaos and comedy/tragedy

Question 5

Where does the song fit in?

Answer 5

Act 2 after dinner, everyone has walked away reflecting on mistakes

Question 6

Sung by?

Mood?

Answer 6

Desiree after Frederick says he loves her but can’t be with her
Very sad - full of irony- “clowns” are funny but upsetting
“Isn’t it rich”
“Losing my timing this late in my career” - reference to her acting
“Maybe next year” - hope for audience to think it will all work out

Question 7

Style and structure

Answer 7

Balladic, lilting rhythms, unhurried tempo, slow rate of harmonic change
Regretful sound and mood