On Saturday, November 17, St. James Cathedral was privileged to host an
extraordinary performance of Rappresentatione di Anima et di Corpo by
Emilio de’ Cavalieri. Composed in Rome in 1600, this “Play of the Soul and
the Body” is considered the first oratorio. It tells the story of the
journey of the soul to Heaven through a series of scenes in which various forces
vie for influence over the susceptible human being. Stephen Stubbs,
musical director; Anna Mansbridge, stage director and choreographer. Jeff
Robbins, lighting design. The headdresses are the work of Daniel C. Baker.
As the play begins, Tempo—Time—speaks of the fleeting nature of human life.
“Today it comes, tomorrow it dies; today it appears; tomorrow it disappears.”
All that really matters, he says, is “to work with hand and heart” for honorable
things.
Soul and Body need each other, but they don’t always agree. While “Anima” wants
to spend time in peace and prayer, “Corpo” loves the play of the senses.
“Here,” he says, “refresh yourself, and take delight in a thousand different
ways.”
While Anima prays, Corpo is tempted by the things of the earth.
A short “Sinfonia” concludes the first act. The dancers—from Seattle Early
Dance and Kaleidoscope Dance Company—represent blessed beings.
The orchestra of Renaissance instruments, under the direction of Stephen Stubbs.
In the second act, the temptations grow more intense as Corpo is drawn away from
Anima by earthly pleasures. Their song is hard to resist, as they promise:
“Banquets, meals, and tasty suppers, pretty dresses, and delightful
perfumes—delight, taste, and joy in pleasure!”
The Guardian Angel.
Now, Corpo finds himself caught between the World and “Vita Mondana”—wordly
life. “I will give you long days adorned with gaiety,” she sings.
“Will you perhaps still be waiting when your hair grows white, when your life
fails?”
The Guardian Angel strips off the fine garments, revealing the true ugliness of
World and Worldly Life.
In the Third Act, “Intelletto,” crowned with flames that suggest the power of
human intellect, and “Consiglio,” Good Counsel, reflect on the delights of
Heaven and the horrors of Hell.
"Consiglio," Good Counsel.
Anima and Corpo are appalled at the sufferings of the damned souls, represented
by the young dancers of the Kaleidoscope Dance Company.
The Damned Soul sings of the terrors of Hell.
As the drama comes to an end, the entire company sings in praise of the angels
and saints—and of the power of music. “Join together, O good angels, join
your songs and sounds! And you on earth… with song and with laughter echo
the sounds of Paradise.”
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