Study Guide
Study Guide Contents
GENERAL INFORMATION
- Beginner's Guide to Opera
- Who's Who At the Opera
- The Lyric Opera House
- BOC Education Programs
- A Bibliography of Selected Readings
- Education Resources
2007-2008 SEASON
2006-2007 SEASON
2005-2006 SEASON
2004-2005 SEASON
2003-2004 SEASON
2002-2003 SEASON
PREVIOUS OPERAS
La Fanciulla del West
The Girl of the Golden West
The Story
In a miner's camp during the California gold rush, Sheriff Jack Rance is jealous of the friendly relationship between Minnie and Dick Johnson, the mysterious stranger who recently arrived in town. After Johnson and Minnie have a quiet supper together in her cabin, a snowstorm forces him to stay the night. The sheriff arrives to inform Minnie that her friend is none other than the infamous bandit Ramerrez.
After he leaves, Minnie confronts "Dick Johnson" with this accusation. He admits to the charge and begs her to understand. She refuses, however, and orders him to leave. The minute he leaves, he is shot by the sheriff, who was lying in wait outside. Minnie drags him back inside and hides him. When the sheriff enters, Minnie challenges him to a game of poker. If he wins, Minnie will marry him. However, if she wins, Ramerrez is to go free. She wins by cheating, and Rance departs.
Later on, Rance receives word that Ramerrez has been caught and is about to be hanged. As the bandit is led to the gallows, Minnie arrives and begs for his life. The miners give in because of their affection for Minnie, and the couple depart to begin a new life together.