The Hunt
“Think ‘Waiting for Godot,’ but with the female rebelliousness of a Sofia Coppola film.”
Written and Composed by Kate Soper
Ashley Kelly Tata, Stage Director
Mila Henry, Music Director
Annie Holt, Dramaturg
Aoshuang Zhang, Scenic Designer
Masha Tsimring, Lighting Designer
Terese Wadden, Costume Designer
Camilla Tassi, Projections Designer
Elliot Yokum, Sound Designer
Cha Ramos, Intimacy Choreographer
A forest clearing and a castle, somewhere in the speculative future
Prologue
Three virgins, Fleur, Briar, and Rue, audition for a job: to attract a majestic unicorn for the King and his Court
Monoceron: Text by Isadore of Seville and Pliny
Scene 1
Some weeks later, the virgins share a livestream update of their progress. After receiving the King’s comment, the virgins pass the time with lunch, a riddle, and an ode, “On the Unicorn.”
On the Unicorn: Text Hildegard of Bingen, translated/abridged Soper
Entr’acte 1
Rue sings of the reasons for her chastity
Rue’s solo: Text by H.D.
Scene 2
Some weeks later, the virgins share a livestream update of their progress. The King’s comment reveals a lack of patience with the persistent failure in their mission. The virgins pass the time with lunch, a riddle, and songs.
Virginsong: Text by Christina Rossetti, abridged Soper
Entr’acte 2
Briar sings of love
Briar’s solo: Text by H.D.
Scene 3
Some weeks later, the virgins share a livestream update of their progress. There is no response from the King and it seems a storm may be brewing. The virgins sing a tribute, “The Noble Unicorn.” A rainstorm erupts over the clearing and the virgins run for cover.
Entr’acte 3
Fleur sings of her frustration
Fleur’s solo: Text by H.D.
Scene 4
Some weeks later, the virgins share a livestream update from the castle of their progress and of the continued rain. The King’s response is ominous and troubling. The virgins pass the time with a song, during which Briar teaches Fleur how to play the ukulele. Rue shares a riddle which is unexpectedly interrupted.
Troubadour Song: Text by Thibaut de Champagne, abridged/translated Soper
Riddle 3: Text from the Exeter Book, translated Erin Sebo, abridged Soper
Scene 5
A short time later, the virgins once again gather in the forest clearing where the foliage has become significantly overgrown. Left to entertain themselves, the virgins experience a remarkable surprise.
Entr’acte 4
That evening, in the castle, the virgins sing a song of love offering and undergo a transformation.
Not Honey/Holy Satyr: Text by H.D.
Scene 6
The next day, Fleur, Briar, and Rue share a livestream update from the forest and face their future.
Riddle 4: Text from the Exeter Book, translated Erin Sebo, abridged Soper
Monoceron reprise: Text by Isadore of Seville and Pliny