Three Loves for Three Oranges: Gozzi, Meyerhold, Prokofiev

Sergei Prokofiev's Love for Three Oranges, a modernist opera, premiered in 1921. It was based on a 1913 theatrical divertissement by Vsevolod Meyerhold, which was inspired by Carlo Gozzi's 1761 commedia dell'arte. This book explores the historical development of Modernism in the arts, the influence of commedia dell'arte on theater and music, and how polemical playfulness informs creation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 460 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2021
Publisher: Indiana University Press

In 1921, Sergei Prokofiev's iconic Love for Three Oranges, a pioneering work of modernist opera, made its debut in Chicago. This captivating piece drew inspiration from various sources, including Vsevolod Meyerhold's 1913 theatrical divertissement and Carlo Gozzi's 1761 commedia dell'arte. By examining these whimsical and provocative works in tandem, we gain a deeper understanding of their interconnected heritage.

Three Loves for Three Oranges: Gozzi, Meyerhold, Prokofiev, a comprehensive collection of essays brought together by 17 distinguished scholars from diverse fields, delves into the historical development of Modernism in the arts. It explores how commedia dell'arte's self-referential and improvisatory elements have influenced theater and music innovations, as well as how playful polemics shape artistic creation. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars and theater enthusiasts alike, offering new translations of Love for Three Oranges alongside insightful essays that chart the transformations and adaptations of this fantastical tale.

The influence of Meyerhold and Prokofiev on the theatrical world is evident in their exploration of the absurd and the grotesque. Meyerhold, known for his experimental and avant-garde approach, incorporated elements of commedia dell'arte into his productions, emphasizing the importance of physicality and improvisation. Prokofiev, on the other hand, drew inspiration from Meyerhold's theatrical style and incorporated it into his operas, creating a unique blend of music, drama, and visual elements.

Love for Three Oranges, in particular, stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of art to provoke thought and challenge societal norms. The story, which revolves around a group of characters who find themselves entangled in a series of absurd and hilarious situations, reflects the playful and subversive nature of commedia dell'arte. Prokofiev's music, characterized by its bold harmonies and intricate rhythms, perfectly complements the narrative, creating a vibrant and dynamic theatrical experience.

Through Three Loves for Three Oranges: Gozzi, Meyerhold, Prokofiev, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history of modernist opera and the enduring impact of Meyerhold and Prokofiev's contributions. This collection of essays serves as a valuable resource for scholars, theater enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of art, theater, and politics.

Weight: 880g
Dimension: 241 x 164 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253057884