The Compère (Stooge) is surprised when he sees two Polichinelle walk onto the stage: one of them is Arlequin dressed as Polichinelle, and the two quarrel. Alone, Polichinelle then asks the benevolent Fée (Fairy) to change him into Arlequin. She also gives him the power to transform anyone he wants into Arlequin. Several characters come to him: a Marchand (male Merchant) who wants to go to a ball to make sure that his wife is not being unfaithful to him; the female peasant Margot, who wants to become rich; an Ivrogne (Drunkard) who believes that he is at the Comédie-Italienne; and a Danseuse (female Dancer).

Rod and string marionette

Not specified

France

Paris

Printed

Double

Rivalry of theatres

Talking nonsense

Disguise

Social ascension

Comical

Fantasy

Les Métamorphoses de Polichinelle, Soleinne collection, BnF

French

Polichinelle

Arlecchino

The Interpreter

Fairy

Merchant (man)

Peasant (female)

Drunkard

Dancer

Double characters

Misunderstanding

Metamorphosis

Final song

Dancing entertainment

Aria

Les Métamorphoses de Polichinelle

Polichinelle's Metamorphoses