Une Education manquee (an Incomplete Education)

Opera in one act by Alexis Emannuel Chabrier (1841-1894). Libretto by Eugene Letterier and Albert Vanloo. Premiered privately in May, 1879 with the first public performance in Paris, January, 1913.

Cast: Gontran de Boismassif (tenor); Helene de la Cerisaie (soprano); Maitre Pausanias (bass).

Synopsis

The action takes place in a drawing room in the chateau of Count Boismassif during the reign of Louis XVI. The young count, Gontran de Boisemassif arrives with his bride Helene de la Cerisaie. According to custom, two elderly members of the family are given the task of telling the young couple about marital matters, a subject about which they remain ignorant. The young count's grandfather sends a letter saying that in his day, he managed very well without any kind of instruction. The young bride's maiden-aunt's opinion is also sought, but is found to be impractical. When a sudden storm springs up, however, the Count's suggestion to his young bride that the thunder will probably cease, if they stay close together. And inevitably, in each other's arms, nature takes over, bringing about the desired result. Maitre Pausanias, who had previously gone out to seek more expert advice for the young couple, finds, on his return, that it is no longer needed.