
Printed
34 pages
Author(s)
Le Théâtre de Polichinelle
Prologue en vers pour l'ouverture du Théâtre de marionnettes dans le jardin des Tuileries
Le Théâtre de Polichinelle (Polichinelle’s Theatre) is a prologue written in verse by Fernand Desnoyers and commissioned by Louis Duranty for the inauguration of his puppet theatre in the Tuileries Garden in Paris. It was therefore premiered on this occasion, on May 19th, 1861; it was the first part of Duranty’s puppet sketch Les Boudins de Gripandouille.
The birth of Polichinelle’s theatre
Bored, Polichinelle wants to have fun. Pierrot suggests for him to open a theatre, but Polichinelle is penniless. Against the promise of a nice meal, Pierrot takes care of finding the needed money. He makes the Commissaire (Superintendent) and the Gendarme (Constable) believe that Cassandre’s bag of écus is the one that was stolen from him. His trick works, and Pierrot brings the money to Polichinelle who thanks him by beating him with his stick. In his troupe, Polichinelle hires everyone he encounters: they all have a specific talent. This is how Polichinelle’s theatre unveils before our eyes. Being a good director, he calls for the kindness of the audience.
First performance
Premiered at the puppet theatre of the Tuileries Garden (Paris) directed by Duranty.
Publications and translations
1861