Interlude in Prague (2017) - full transcript

(CLASSICAL MUSIC PLAYING)

(WOMAN MOANING)

(OPERATIC SINGING PLAYING)

- (MOANING CONTINUES)
- (GLASS SHATTERS)

(WOMAN GASPING
AND WHIMPERING)

(WOMAN EXHALES)

(OPERATIC SINGING CONTINUES)

(SINGING CONTINUES)

(SINGING CONTINUES)

(SINGING CONTINUES)

(AUDIENCE APPLAUDING)



(INAUDIBLE)

(APPLAUSE CONTINUES)

(PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

(CHATTERING CONTINUES)

(WOMAN GRUNTS SOFTLY)

NOVAK: The people are here
to see Frau Josefa.

Your master, I know,
will understand.

Is there a problem, Bloch?

No, My Lord.

Baron Saloka,
wonderful production,

don't you think?

As it should be, Herr Novak.

So many admirers are here
to congratulate

Frau Josefa on her performance.



SALOKA: I see.

But, Baron Saloka...

Uh, what I mean is that
she is...

She's our shining star.

Indeed.

(DOOR CLOSES)

Good evening, Frau Josefa.

And you pay the piper,
Herr Novak.

Then, and only then,
can you call the tune.

Frau Greta.

(SIGHS)

Your voice was
in exquisite form tonight.

May I?

My dear, when I find
great beauty,

then I want to nurture it,

so that when it blossoms,

I can relish and enjoy
what is mine.

- Baron...
- Mmm...

Of course, I'm grateful for...

- Yes, of course.
- ...such kind words,

and for all your support.

- (DOOR OPENS)
- NOVAK: I'm sorry. Excuse me.

Frau Josefa,
my dear Baron Saloka,

but there is
quite a crowd out here.

They're very insistent.

My dear Frau.

- (CROWD CLAMORING)
- Move. Out of my way.

(PEOPLE CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

(INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)

WOMAN 1: Extraordinary talent.
WOMAN 2: Oh, yes.

WOMAN 1: Extraordinary.
WOMAN 3: Indeed.

Well, you must have heard.

You know, Mozart was
a child prodigy.

He wrote his first opera
at the age of nine.

I have never heard music
as exciting as Figaro.

Well, he is a genius.

A genius? No, I think not.

A competent craftsman, perhaps.

WOMAN: I believe
you've met him, Baron.

Indeed, I have.

His Grace, the Archbishop,

had the little fellow perform
for our entertainment

during my visit to Salzburg.

Wonderful! His music is
so popular.

Indeed. I do believe
every servant in our household

can whistle Voi che sapete.

- (ALL LAUGH)
- Some might even sing it.

(SCOFFS) Sing is
a little strong, my love.

(ALL LAUGHING)

(MAN LAUGHING)

If only we could persuade him
to come to Prague,

to conduct the final performance
of Figaro.

It would take him at least
five days to get here.

Hmm, and the cost.

I suspect, like most composers,

he can barely cover the cost
of the coach fare.

(ALL CHUCKLE)

Then we must pay for him.

(ALL CLAMORING EXCITEDLY)

And here.

COUNTESS MUTI: Herr Burgen.
WOMAN: All right.

COUNTESS MUTI: Herr Smitt.

(ALL CLAMORING)

- COUNTESS MUTI: Herr Luptak.
- (WOMAN CHUCKLES)

(CLEARS THROAT)

He's a very good friend
of yours, Frau Josefa.

Will you ask him for us?

- We would be delighted.
- He can stay with us.

WOMAN 1: Mozart? In Prague?

- What an honor...
- WOMAN 2: Bravo!

(CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

This will hardly get him
as far as Brunn.

But if it pleases Frau Josefa,

I shall bring Mozart to Prague.

(ALL APPLAUDING)

(LIVELY PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)

Right.

It seems The Marriage of Figaro
has lost its Cherubino.

What? A moment.

What happened?

It's from Novak.

Greta has gone back
to Germany

and left the theatre.

Any explanation?

Nothing. It just says
she needed to go home.

For what reason?

- It doesn't say.
- Hmm.

So, who will sing Cherubino?

Zuzana Luptak.

She's very talented.
Has an amazing voice.

And she knows the part well.

MAN: It's a lot to ask of her.
She's so young.

Don't worry. She can do it.

(SINGING OPERATICALLY)

(AUDIENCE APPLAUDING)

WOMAN: Bravo.

Does she please you,
My Lord?

Yeah. Yeah, she does.

(HORSE WHINNIES)

(ZUZANA CHUCKLES)

HERR LUPTAK: The role
of Cherubino.

FRAU LUPTAK: Baron Saloka
chose her himself.

Our very own darling Zuzana.

(ZUZANA CHUCKLES)

HERR LUPTAK: Only
because you knew our darling

sang like a nightingale.

Oh, Papa, you always say that.

HERR LUPTAK:
Well, it must be true.

He is a man of excellent taste.

And so very handsome,
don't you agree?

I think he's rather fierce.

Fierce?
Don't be foolish, darling.

In fact, he'd make
an excellent husband for you.

Papa, he's too old.

Uh, he has maturity, it's true.
What do you think, my dear?

Oh, yes. Dare I dream of
such a man for Zuzana.

Good pedigree and wealthy, too.

But, Mama, we are not poor.

No, no, the Baron has already
invited your mother and I

to be his house guests.

No doubt he'll want to
talk to us

about his new Cherubino.

- Papa!
- Hush, Dorsa.

Have some respect.

Your father knows
what's best for you.

Has he ever been wrong?

- No.
- HERR LUPTAK: No.

FRAU LUPTAK: No.

ZUZANA: Is it true Mozart
is coming to stay with you?

JOSEFA: Yes, it is.
He arrives today.

- I'll introduce you.
- (CHUCKLES) Wonderful.

Zuzana, I'm your friend.
I'm here to help.

I need to give you
some important advice.

- Advice?
- Yes.

- Is it about my singing?
- No, no.

It's about Baron Saloka.

He'll be generous,
and he will help you.

Yes, I feel very blessed.

In a way, yes, you are.

But beware.

It comes at a price.

I don't understand.

Just don't be alone with him.

- (KNOCKING AT DOOR)
- (DOOR OPENS)

(DOOR CLOSES)

Hana...

Where do you think you're going?

(WOMAN SINGING OPERATICALLY)

(OPERATIC SINGING CONTINUES)

(WOMAN CONTINUES SINGING)

Bravo! Bellissimo! Encore!

Sorry, did I wake you?

I had no idea you could hear me.

But it was wonderful.

Awakened by a musical zephyr

tapping on my consciousness.

- Herr Mozart.
- Yes. I'll be down in a moment.

(GASPS)

JOSEFA: Maestro!
MOZART: Good morning, Josefa.

JOSEFA: (KISSING)
I see you two have met.

- You slept well, I hope.
- I did, indeed.

And when I awoke,
the voice of an angel

came drifting in
through my window.

I thought myself in Heaven.

JOSEFA: Barbarina,
feeding the birds again?

Fattening up those pigeons?

What for, pigeon pie?

- (DOOR CLOSES)
- (MOZART CHUCKLES)

And how are you, Wolfgang?

MOZART: It's difficult
being on my own.

And how is Constanze?

The loss of little Johan
must still be so raw for her.

For you both.

Such a tiny little thing.

Gone.

Gone before he knew his name.

At least we have Karl.

Constanze is taking him with her
to the spa.

Good. That will revive
her spirits.

I miss her.

Give her time.

You both need to grieve.

(SIGHS) Yes. (CHUCKLES SOFTLY)

- You're right. (CHUCKLES)
- Good.

So, let's talk about
how you're going to

spend your time here.

- Peace and quiet, you said.
- Yes.

Really, I need time to think.

My new opera is
still unfinished.

I'm sure you'll find
inspiration here.

Mmm, I'm sure I will.

But more importantly,
will there be a part for me?

(CHUCKLES) Of course,
a big, beautiful aria.

- Wonderful.
- Mmm.

This Baron Saloka,

you mentioned him
in your letter.

Didn't he pay
to bring me to Prague?

He made a generous contribution.

So, he must love my music.

I must thank him.
What's he like?

I hate him.

But he'd made
a diabolically wicked character

for one of your operas.

Oh, really? Well, I see now.

Saloka, you tortured terror.

(BOTH LAUGHING)

(SINGING)
♪ A diabolical baritone ♪

- ♪ Or a tortured tenor ♪
- (LAUGHS)

Yes, or the baritone?

- The tenor.
- The tenor. That'd work nicely.

(BOTH LAUGHING)

BLOCH: And this is
the last, My Lord.

SALOKA: Here.

There is one more thing, sir.

Yes?

A letter from the
Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg.

It appears he has reason to
send an envoy to Prague.

Gentleman named Henry Novy.

- Oh.
- He requests an audience.

Oh.

Yes.

A most important emissary.
Well...

Make the necessary arrangements.

Yes, My Lord.

Are there any other arrangements
you require, My Lord?

Hmm?

Another visit from
Frau Vogt, perhaps?

Unfortunately, her husband is

keeping her
on a very tight rein.

Perhaps your new soprano,
Zuzana Luptak?

No, no, no, I have long-term
plans for Fraulein Luptak.

In answer to your question,

the wardrobe mistress
at the Nostitz.

Fraulein Ribber.

Yes, she is
pathetically receptive

to a mere smile.

Bring her here
after tonight's performance.

- Yes, My Lord.
- That will be all.

(DOGS BARKING IN DISTANCE)

Thanks.

Has anyone seen Hana?

I think I'll go and find her.

(DOOR CREAKS OPEN)

Hana, what's wrong with you,
my child?

Hey.

Why didn't you come down
for supper?

What's the matter?

I'm not very hungry.

- Don't worry, Papa.
- (SNIFFS AND SIGHS)

I'll be all right
in the morning.

Sleep tight.

(BLOWS CANDLE OUT)

(WHISPERING) Night.

(DOOR CLOSES)

- Mmm?
- We are blessed.

You'll never guess
what news I have for you.

Today, I received

a message.

No, wait. Baron Saloka?

Tell me, what does it say?

He requested permission
to call on Zuzana.

I knew it! I saw the way
he looked at her.

So, Cherubino isn't
the only role

he has in mind for Zuzana.

Certainly not.

And it appears,
the baron is wasting no time.

- FRAU LUPTAK: Aw.
- (GLASS CLINKING)

(EXCLAIMS EXCITEDLY)

Sir, have some tea.

It will refresh you.

The good Baron Saloka

has requested the honor
of your presence.

A masquerade.

There will be dancing.
You should rest today.

I can't.

Please, join me.

I need to talk.

(BARBARINA SIGHS)

I've made a significant change
to my life.

- Noble?
- Yes.

I was once the organist
and composer

at the court of

the Prince-Archbishop
of Salzburg.

- Very grand.
- No, it wasn't.

- I was just one of his servants.
- Really?

Yes.

And that... Well, that was
just the beginning.

As time went on, his treatment,

his accusations against me...

Well, they became intolerable.

(PLAYING FAST TUNE)

I spent my time
writing music he prescribed.

Court music.
Barely a melody.

(MUSIC STOPS)

So what did you do?

(PLAYING INTENSELY)

I left him.

At least now I'm free to write
and create my own music.

Yes, sir, you are.

If you have need of anything,

just ring the bell
and I will come.

You mentioned dancing?

Come on, I need to practice.

- No, sir.
- Rubbish.

- Come on. (HUMMING A TUNE)
- (BARBARINA LAUGHS)

(INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PLAYING)

(SPEAKING INDISTINCTLY)

(MAN SPEAKING INDISTINCTLY)

(MUSIC CONTINUES PLAYING)

(CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

- (ALL APPLAUDING)
- (MAN CLEARS THROAT)

(CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

(LIVELY MUSIC PLAYING)

(ALL CHEERING AND APPLAUDING)

(ALL APPLAUDING)

(MOZART CHUCKLES)

(LAUGHS)

- (MOZART LAUGHS)
- (ALL APPLAUDING)

(CHEERING AND APPLAUDING)

(LAUGHING)

(LIVELY MUSIC PLAYING)

Herr Mozart.

My pleasure, Frau Rose.

But there is one problem.

This is a masquerade.

You're not meant
to recognize me.

But you're everyone's favorite.

Even my father's groom
hums your tunes in the stable.

But it is known that horses
do love my music.

- Maestro, I didn't mean...
- WOMAN: Enough!

SALOKA: Madam,
I'm not a stranger.

WOMAN: I don't think so.

(CHUCKLES)

I'm teasing you.

It's irresistible.

What I'm trying to say is

I believe your music is, well...

A gift from God.

It makes the world
a more beautiful place.

Why, thank you.

Such generous praise.

My apologies, sir.

Fraulein Rose.

Herr, uh, Cat.

Forgive me.

(LAUGHING)

Well, I hope you've enjoyed
the good baron's hospitality.

Thank you. Yes.

Enchanting.

As is your friend, Frau Rose.

I'd like to see what's
underneath that mask.

- You are a naughty man.
- (CHUCKLES SOFTLY)

I see the Baron is buzzing
around our little Rose.

He's coming our way.

I must thank him.
Introduce me.

Baron Saloka,

may I present Herr Mozart.

Good evening, Baron Saloka,
I believe...

Hmm.

(CHUCKLES)

(PLAYING TUNE)

(KNOCKING ON DOOR)

So how goes the onslaught
this morning, Maestro?

Not well.

I can't concentrate
since Josefa introduced me

to our new Cherubino.

- Fraulein Zuzana Luptak.
- Yes.

I'm incapable of doing anything
until I hear her sing.

I don't think
you'll be disappointed.

Josefa told me.

Barbarina,

tell me about
this Baron Saloka.

(EXHALES)
But it's just gossip, sir.

You must know.

Come on, sit here.

It's important.

Well,

there are rumors.

Ladies,

some married.

Surely society wives
are allowed a little...

(CHUCKLES) Anyway,

if a wife puts her mind to it,

her husband
won't suspect a thing.

Unless her throat is bruised.

Bruises?

I see.

- No Casanova then.
- No.

(SINGING OPERATICALLY)

MAN: Wonderful, Frau Zuzana.
Let's stop there.

(ALL APPLAUDING)

Absolutely marvelous.

Thank you so much.

Perhaps you've not heard,
Herr Mozart,

his lordship had
a narrow escape.

- Really?
- Yes.

He was attacked
by his own servant.

Had to cut him down,

I understand,
in self-defense.

Mercifully, the good Baron
is an excellent swordsman.

He was unharmed.

Does this sort of thing
always happen in Prague?

Perhaps this is
not a topic for now.

Herr Novak, Herr Mozart.

I do beg your pardon, ladies,
I wasn't thinking.

I must go and speak to the
Baron before he leaves.

- Your servant.
- Yes, indeed.

Please give him our best wishes.

I hear you are writing
a new opera, Herr Mozart.

Yes, it is beginning

to take shape at last.
(CHUCKLES)

And Signor Bondini has arranged

for the premiere
to take place here.

Such an honor for the city.

You must think
it's a provincial backwater

- compared to Vienna.
- What you mean?

Prague contains all the people
in the world that love my music.

Yes, you're quite a favorite.

Does your new opera
have a name?

No, but it will be based roughly
on the story of Don Juan.

Always a popular subject.

Can I be of some help perhaps?

Sing some of the new work.
I would be honored to do so.

What a good idea.

That would be wonderful.

As long as you would allow it,
of course, Frau Luptak.

(SIGHS) I don't see why not.

I know, Zuzana
would enjoy it.

- Would you not, darling?
- Yes, Mama, I would.

Well, yes.
Please do come.

Herr Mozart.

To your very good health.

And you, Baron Saloka.

I'm here as envoy
of the Prince Archbishop.

Hmm.

But it is not just
matters of church,

which concern his grace.

He had heard news
of Herr Mozart,

that he's composing
a new opera here in the city.

Yes, he makes
no secret of it,

declares it to be
a major work.

Modesty was never
one of his qualities.

No. Aside from writing
what is admittedly fine music,

I can detect no beneficial
qualities in him at all.

His Grace would agree
with you to leave

the Archbishop's employ
in such fashion,

is insolent and ungrateful.

I could not agree more.

Mozart is out of control.

His Grace believes he should
be denounced as a heretic.

(CHUCKLES) Heretic.

Believe me, Herr Novy,
Prague influentials

are so enthralled by him

they simply
would not stand for it.

He is bereft of social graces,
and on top of that.

He flirts outrageously

with an innocent young woman

in whom I have
a professional interest.

A fine soprano
of the Nostitz.

And him a married man.

Oh. Yes.

If the little upstart were

seen to be without honor,

then I would be forced
to withdraw my patronage

and then Herr Novak

would have to ban
his operas at the Nostitz.

You would do that?

I would.
It would be satisfying.

Oh, yes.
Very satisfying.

So how would you
suggest we begin?

First step,
renew my acquaintance

with the loathsome
little peacock.

Hmm.

(KNOCKING ON DOOR)

Fraulein Luptak is here
on her own.

Are you expecting her?

Am I too early?

If you are not ready,
I will go away then.

No, no, no. It's fine.

I have a piece here

ready and waiting.
It's here somewhere.

Thank you, Barbarina.
Some refreshments, please?

Don't mind Barbarina.
She's just jealous.

I have that effect
on all the ladies.

(MOZART AND Zuzana CHUCKLE)

That's better.

(CHUCKLES)

You have the most
beautiful smile.

I hope you should
like my voice, too.

Yes, of course.

I'm sure I will.

Now, let's exercise that voice.

(VOCALIZING)

Again.

(ZUZANA VOCALIZING)

(CLEARS THROAT)

- (RINGS BELL)
- (CLEARS THROAT)

It works.

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

(EXHALES)

Coming here
without her mama,

and Frau Josefa away.

(SIGHS)

(SINGING OPERATICALLY)

(CLEARS THROAT)

Was that wrong?

No, no, it's just, um...

Your papa has been murdered.

Your heart is full of anger.

- You have been seduced...
- By Don Giovanni.

Don Giovanni
is a wicked man.

He must be punished.

Yes, but, oh,
shame on your heart.

You enjoy the seduction.

(KNOCKING ON DOOR)

Thank you, Barbarina.

We will help ourselves.

I think I must
teach you how to flirt.

I think you must not.

It could be helpful.

I've had a strict
upbringing, Maestro.

Dalliance, especially with
a married man is forbidden.

Naturally.

Will this hinder
my progress in opera.

What?

No.

You must forgive me.

I was teasing you.

"Oh, Constanze,

"I miss you

"so much.

"I long to see

"your dear face..."

"My darling wife.

"I hope your rest in the spa
has revived your spirits.

"I'm busy rehearsing
at the Nostitz

"for the final gala
performance of Figaro."

Just here and here.

That's a forte.

And here, let is grow a little.
Do you understand?

Yes.

Yes, of course.

Good.

"I'm being inspired by Prague

"and have discovered

"a beautiful young soprano,

"Fraulein Zuzana Luptak.

"I've decided to call
my new opera Don Giovanni,

"and I believe it could be
finished very soon

"if you were by my side.

"Please

"come and join me...

"Join me in Prague.

"Your devoted,
and ever loving husband,

"Wolfgang."

Mmm.

(SINGING OPERATICALLY)

May I make a suggestion.

Perhaps there could
be a question

floated at the end.

Like this.

(SINGING)

Forgive me.

I know I'm just a beginner.

(MOZART PLAYS HARPSICHORD)

NOVAK: His lordship
had a narrow escape.

He was attacked
by his own servant.

Had to cut him down,
I understand.

Mercifully, the good Baron
is an excellent swordsman.

He was unharmed.

(APPLAUDING)

I don't normally get approval
from my entire audience.

Apologies, ladies.

My head is full
of dangerous thoughts.

Don Giovanni
is beginning to frighten me.

Marriage to Fraulein Luptak.

Is the proposition
really so absurd?

No, My Lord.

She will remain in this house
until she is breeding

and then she'll go to one
other of the estates.

In the interim,

I will be requiring you
to run a second.

So that is within
your capabilities, isn't it?

- Yes, My Lord.
- Good.

Have Fraulein Ribber visit
Frau Josefa tomorrow.

- Yes, My Lord.
- And afterwards, I have a mind

to see if she enjoys
playing an unusual game

My Lord.

Wardrobe mistress

as performed
to my complete satisfaction.

You will take my place.

Yes, My Lord.

It's your duty.

One day you'll thank me
for my foresight.

Will I?

But why am I so filled
with dread and not joy?

Because you don't know
how to direct your thoughts.

No young woman does.
That's why I, as your father,

must direct you.

But I don't like him.

There are such rumors.
(SNIFFLES)

He is not a good person.

What rumors?
I've heard no such thing.

I will not love him.

Zuzana,

you have been
taught obedience

- and you will do my bidding.
- (SNIFFLES)

He most ardently seeks
your hand in marriage.

The Baron will teach you
how to love,

how to please him.

Am I not be pleased?

Oh!

Of course, the Baron
will wish to please you,

as any husband must do.

So,

it's been decided.

Now you dry your eyes

and I shall go tell your mother
the good news.

I shall see you at dinner.
(CLEARS THROAT)

(DOOR CLOSES)

(ZUZANA SINGING)

(KNOCKING ON DOOR)

I'm sorry to interrupt,
but Fraulein Ribber is here

- Frau Josefa, to fit your dress.
- Really?

Oh, well, won't be long.

No, no. Don't worry.

Fraulein Zuzana and I
will go for the second aria.

(DOOR CLOSES)

Finally,

I have you all to myself.

(GASPS)

Please don't cry.

I can't cope with tears.

I have upset you
and I apologize unreservedly.

Look, I'm at arm's length.

I will not kiss you again.

No.

You must understand
I'm not crying

because you kissed me.

Why are you crying?

My father wants me
to marry Baron Saloka.

Baron Saloka,
that's ridiculous.

He said it's a perfect match

and that the union will
further my career in opera.

I am afraid.

Let me speak with your father.

You would do that for me?

Yes, of course.

(OPERA MUSIC PLAYING)

Henry Novy at your service,

Herr Mozart.

We have met briefly in Salzburg.

So let's go again.

The Marriage of Figaro.

What a premiere
we had in Vienna.

Thank you.

Now you're composing
a new opera?

Yes.

Don Giovanni.

Ah.

How exciting.

I hear you're trying out
this new work

at Frau Josefa's house.

Yes.

Frau Josefa
and Fraulein Luptak

have been kind enough to assist.

I wonder,

would you allow me
to watch you rehearse?

Yes, uh,

if Frau Josefa will permit it.

Your Lordship.

I did not think...

I saw a flower seller outside.

I saw this and...

I thought of you.

Please.

(ALL APPLAUDING)

MOZART:
Just a short break please.

Wonderful rehearsal.

Herr Mozart.

I'd like you
to hear a new piece.

It's an aria from
my new opera,

accompanied by your
excellent orchestra.

Herr Mozart.

But I'm not sure I should.

Yes, Yes, you should.

I have copies
of the music right here.

Hmm?

- Very well, Herr Mozart.
- Thank you very much.

(OPERA MUSIC PLAYING)

Ah.

Oh.

(BREATHES HEAVILY)

(WHISPERS)
Did I do this to you...

- Mmm?
- Yes.

Will you forgive me?

Hmm?

I... I forgive you.

(MOANING)

(WHIMPERS)

(ALL APPLAUDING)

Herr Mozart.

We have been
truly privileged today.

Thank you, Johan.

Means a great deal to me.

May I ask a favor of you?

Herr Mozart?

Please. Wolfgang.

(CHUCKLES) Wolfgang.

If I'm able to oblige
in any way,

you only have to ask.

I need to try and have
an audience with Herr Luptak.

Have you heard of
his daughter's betrothal?

To the good Baron.
Yes, of course.

It's the talk of the city.

Naturally, we are
very happy for them both.

And you are aware
of his reputation.

Wolfgang, he is
our principal patron.

I know that.

But for Herr Luptak
to marry his daughter off

to such a man will...

I want to try and persuade him
against the match.

But Herr Luptak is thrilled.

I have to try.

Very well.

But be careful.

(OPERA MUSIC PLAYING)

Bravo! That was wonderful.

I think we all deserve
to take a break.

- Don't you, Maestro?
- Of course.

You must all forgive me.

I'm a slave driver.

Zuzana and I are
enjoying ourselves.

Aren't we?

- Zuzana?
- Oh, yes.

I had no idea opera
was such hard work.

I'll be more appreciative
in future.

ZUZANA: It is hard work, yes.

But it is a privilege

to sing
Herr Mozart's music.

Yes, I'm beginning
to understand.

You must all forgive me, um...

I think I need
a breath of fresh air.

Please excuse me.

(CHUCKLES)

I need more time with you.

Alone.

(SIGHS) How can we?

When?

Pay me visit on Wednesday
at 11:00.

I will arrange everything.

You sure?

But try not to
bring him with you.

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

NOVY: To the casual observer,
they were merely

taking a moment's respite
from the intensity of the music.

But it was clear to me that,
well, there was more to it.

SALOKA: Hmm. As I suspected.

I've arranged for my man
to follow the peacock

wherever he goes.

Good.

Bloch.

Could you arrange for
one of our most reliable men

to follow
Fraulein Luptak also?

- My Lord.
- Good.

Oh, and the uh...
The wardrobe mistress.

Go and see her.
Let her know

when she has to pay
Fraulein Luptak a visit.

Yes, my Lord.

The woman works
at the Nostitz.

And she is also under
my, uh, employ.

Excellent. She will have
the necessary excuses

to gain entrance to
Fraulein Zuzana's bedchamber.

Indeed. Off you go.

Mozart will make a mistake,

- go too far.
- Yes.

He must be exposed.

Ruined.

We still have
to find tangible proof.

- We will get it.
- Hmm.

(BELL TOLLING)

HERR LUPTAK: Please,
Herr Bohac, be seated.

Excuse me, Herr Luptak.

I'll wait outside.

Maestro Mozart has requested
a word with you in private.

Right. Yes, of course.

Herr Luptak,
I admire your daughter's voice.

She has a great future
as a singer ahead of her.

I've already written a part
for her in my new opera.

Oh, we're grateful that
her talent has been

even the slightest
inspiration to you.

Oh, it has.

And for that reason,
I ask you to forgive me.

(CLEARS THROAT)

Herr Luptak,

my intentions are honorable

but I fear I'm about to intrude
in your private affairs.

My private affairs?

I'm concerned
for Fraulein Zuzana.

Concerned? In what way?

About her proposed
betrothal to Baron Saloka.

Are you aware of his...

I'm aware, sir,

that this is
none of your business.

- His...
- His reputation as a womanizer.

(SCOFFS)

You dare to question
my choice of husband

for my daughter?

Baron Saloka comes from
one of Prague's oldest

and most noble families.

I do not question
the Saloka pedigree,

merely the character
of the current baron.

Sir, I truly believe that
I can be of greater assistance

in furthering your daughter's
career than such a man.

How can you compare your
influence to that of the Baron?

Hmm? You are
an impecunious composer.

The baron is a respected
patron of the opera,

and has the means necessary

to promote
my daughter's career.

I thank you
to take your leave.

(SIGHS)

Sir, I do not wish
to cause you any anger.

- Hans, show him out.
- Only to warn you...

Now, please, Herr Mozart.

At least you tried, Maestro.

Please don't tell anyone
I said this,

but I fear
Saloka is untouchable.

He thinks himself
above the law.

Thank you, Johan.

You certainly know how
to raise a fellow's spirits.

Should I bring the sapphires?

We do need to
make an impression.

No, no, no. There's no need
to outdo our host, is there?

But I've only packed five hats
and three walking dresses.

Mama, you will be fine.

We're going away for two days.

Two days, not two weeks.

Zuzana, remember,

do not receive any visitors
while we're away, yes?

I've already said, Papa,
I understand.

No dallying this evening.

No dallying.

Ah. Right.

Now then.

- (CHUCKLES)
- Bye-bye, darling.

There's no need to worry.

HERR LUPTAK: No need to worry.

She doesn't want me
to say that, does she?

(NEIGHING)

(KNOCKING)

- Morning.
- Good morning, sir.

- I'm sorry, but...
- That's all right, Hans.

Please show Herr Mozart in.

Herr and Frau Luptak
are not here.

And neither is Herr Mozart.

Hmm.

Fraulein Luptak.

Herr Mozart is...

Not here

Thank you, Hans.

May I speak to you,
Fraulein Luptak?

Of course.

Please take a seat, Maestro.

(SNICKERS)

Forgive me, Fraulein,
but the master,

he instructed me that
you were not to receive anyone.

He instructed me, too.

And I told him I understood.

I did not agree to obey.

- But Herr Mozart...
- Herr Mozart is not "anyone."

Fraulein Luptak...

Stop worrying, Hans.

Is everything all right
with your servant?

Everything is perfect
now that you are here.

My dear Zuzana,

I'm sorry that I have
failed you miserably.

He became very angry when
I mentioned Saloka's reputation.

He called me
an impecunious composer.

Oh, dear.

I'm sorry.

I want so much to help you.

Well, thank you for trying.

There must be
something I can do.

Oh, there is.

(KNOCKING AT DOOR)

Fraulein Ribber is here.

She's anxious
to fit your costume.

Send it to my dressing room.

Is it usual
for your wardrobe mistress

to come to the house?

Not really, and nothing seems
very usual at the moment.

I'll be as quick as I can.

(DOOR CLOSES)

(EXHALES)

(PLAYING TUNE)

Frau Ribber.

(EXCLAIMS NERVOUSLY)
I'm sorry. I was listening...

You startled me.

And you me.

It's the aria from Herr Mozart's
new opera, is it not?

The one Frau Josefa sang
at the Nostitz.

Yes.

Herr Mozart very kindly
gave me a copy of the score.

Hmm.

And one of my servants
is learning the piece

so that I can sing the aria
for pleasure.

Unusual to have such
a talented servant. (LAUGHS)

Yes.

Who is all this for?

Fraulein Zuzana
and Herr Mozart.

But they are doing
the rehearsal at three o'clock.

For after the rehearsal.

This is her one moment
of happiness.

Are you mad?

If Saloka ever found out...

But he won't.

I wouldn't be so sure.

You'd better tell the genius
to cut that racket.

MOZART: Halt.
I'll get out here.

ZUZANA: No, don't go.

Not yet.

(SIGHS) I must.

But tonight.

You'll come back to me tonight.

Yes.

(CHUCKLES)

- Whoa!
- (NEIGHING)

MOZART: Hey, Johan.

Please forgive me,
but I have another favor to ask.

Go on.

This might sound melodramatic,

but I suspect that
I'm being watched.

Everywhere I go,
either Herr Novy

or his servant
is two steps behind me.

I have seen Herr Novy
in the company of the Baron,

so I think I can guess
what this is about.

- You can?
- Of course.

My dear fellow,
Fraulein Zuzana.

Hmm.

They're playing
a dangerous game here, Maestro.

I hope you know
what you're doing.

Me, too.

And that's why
I need your help.

Come.

NOVY: So now they've traveled
to the theater together alone.

Such brazen deceit.

A pity your wardrobe mistress
could not have

got word to my man sooner.

A pity your man could not spot
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

arriving at the Luptaks' house
in the first place.

(SINGING OPERATICALLY)

I am so looking forward
to our evening together.

Me too.

Be gentle with me.

Don't worry.
We'll get proof tonight.

Yes. We will.

- MAN: Good night, Herr Mozart.
- Good night.

(GIGGLES)

(KNOCKING AT DOOR)

(KNOCKING)

MARIA: Fraulein Zuzana!

That woman Ribber's here.

Quickly.

Five minutes, Maria.
(STAMMERS) Then...

then show her
to my dressing room.

- Get up!
- (GRUNTS)

(THUDS)

(GROANS)

(OBJECTS CLATTERING)

Don't make a sound!

I know. I'll be as quiet
as a mouse. (CHUCKLES)

And when
the dressing room door shuts,

I will tiptoe
down the stairs

and scurry away.

(BOTH CHUCKLE)

(GROANS)

(BOTH LAUGH)

Is this how it's always
going to be for us?

What?

I thought you understood.

Making love to you

was wonderful.

A happiness
I will always remember, but...

What are you saying?

I have to be a dutiful daughter.

And an obedient wife.

And you,
a good husband and father.

MARIA: Please, Fraulein,
you must hurry.

Mozart is a cunning weasel.

Out, both of you.

Yes?

Our men wasted a good hour
chasing some impostor

down every damn street
of Prague.

Why am I not
in the least bit surprised?

With little doubt,
they are, well...

Lovers,

but there's no proof.

But there is no doubt.

(CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

WOMAN: He's very kind.

Maestro, what is it?

Zuzana.

I'm not sure I can do this.

Wolfgang, my dear friend,

everyone is here to see you.

- I can't.
- Yes, you can.

Do it for her.

The orchestra
is ready and waiting.

Come.

(ALL APPLAUDING)

(MUSIC BEGINS)

(WOMAN SINGING OPERATICALLY)

What do you make
of my new Cherubino?

Quite the find, isn't she?

Hmm.

Certainly is.

- She's in sparkling form.
- Yes.

Pity she isn't as pure
as her voice.

(AUDIENCE APPLAUDING)

Make some excuse
to get rid of Herr Novy.

And have my coach brought
around to the stage door.

I have some unfinished business
to attend to.

- (KNOCKING ON DOOR)
- Come in, mama.

(DOOR OPENS)

Ah...

Haven't you blossomed?

I'm so very proud of you.

Of me, My Lord, or of my voice?

Come. I am to escort
you home in my carriage.

Oh, I thought mama and papa...

Oh, no, no, no.
It-it's all been arranged.

The carriage awaits
at the stage door. Please.

Come.

Baron.

(ALL CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

- Wolfgang?
- Excuse me.

It seems Baron Saloka
is escorting

Frau Cherubino home tonight.

Are you sure?

But her parents are still here.

I just saw them
leave in the direction

of the stage door.

Leave it, Wolfgang.

If Herr Luptak approves
of them being along together,

there's nothing you can do.

Where are we going?

SALOKA: We're going
to my residence.

And my father agreed to this?

Oh, yes.

Yes, of course.

COACHMAN: Hold that. Giddy.

Come.

Sit here.

We have not

had the opportunity to speak

privately together before now.

No, My Lord.

There has been little time.

Yes.

It appears your

every waking hour

is swallowed up
by your opera duty.

We are required to rehearse
almost daily.

Oh, almost daily.
Is that so?

Hmm.

Come.

Drink your wine.

I would rather not.

Well, I would rather you did.

You see...

Although, we are not yet

formerly betrothed,

I am intent

on you learning a lesson

tonight.

When I say drink,

you drink.

(GAGGING)

(COUGHING)

When I say stop, then

you stop.

I believe I told you to sit.

So sit!

Now...

It has come to my attention

that you and Mozart are lovers.

Is it true?

Zuzana, my dear,

answer the question.

- You have not learned...
- (WHIMPERS)

...your lesson.

- Have you?
- No.

When I ask you a question,
I expect a reply the moment...

(CRYING)

...I ask it.

And not at your pleasure!

(BOTH GRUNTING)

(CRYING)

You have his stench on you.

How dare you? How dare you?

You humiliated me.

You disgraced me.

(CRYING)

Your father,

he won't forgive you,

he will despise you

when he finds out the truth!

(SALOKA GROANS)

(GRUNTS)

(PANTING)

- Oh, my God.
- HERR LUPTAK: Open the door...

Get out of my way.
Where is my daughter?

She should not be here
with you at the night.

I did not give permission.

(HERR LUPTAK GASPS)

It was an accident. I...

I-I did not intend it.

(HERR LUPTAK CRYING)

I-I lost control.

(DOOR OPENS)

(DOOR CLOSES)

(KNOCKING ON DOOR)

(DOOR OPENS)

WOMAN: Herr Mozart,
Herr Luptak is here to see you.

- Herr Luptak...
- Mozart.

I have to beg
for your forgiveness.

But it is I who should beg
for your forgiveness.

No. No.

She's dead.

It's my fault.

I was blind.

You warned me

about that monster.

And I ignored you.

I was blinded too.

I was intoxicated
by her beauty and talent.

You made her happy.

(BOTH SNIFFLING)

I thank you for that.

Good day to you.

What of Saloka?

(SOBS) Claims it was
an accident.

He won't get away with it.

I'll see him hanged.

(DOOR CLOSES)

(WHISPERS) I'll never
leave you again.

HERR LUPTAK:
The role of Cherubino.

FRAU LUPTAK:
Baron Saloka chose her himself.

HERR LUPTAK:
...because you, my darling,

sang like a nightingale.

Herr Luptak, I have
a young woman here.

She's called Hana,
a servant of Saloka.

She has something vital
to tell you.

Vital.

Well...

Show her in.

(FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING)

Please t-take a seat, Hana.

Hans, uh, bring a dish of tea.

And some of Maria's biscuits.

(DOOR CLOSES)

Maria bakes lovely biscuits.

Begging your pardon, sir.

I'm sorry to bother you
at this time, sir.

But it's to do
with Baron Saloka.

I was in his service, sir.

I'm carrying his child.

He is the devil, sir.

He murdered my father
in cold blood.

I saw it.

(BIRDS CAWING)

(SOMBER MUSIC PLAYING)

(FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING)

(MAN LAUGHING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC PLAYING)

(CLINKING)

(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)

(ORCHESTRAL MUSIC PLAYING)

(MAN VOCALIZING)

(RUMBLING)

(CREAKING)

(ROPE CREAKING)

(CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

(OPERATIC MUSIC PLAYING)

(SINGING OPERATICALLY)

- Stop. Stop.
- (GASPS)

Maestro?

(MAN CLEARS THROAT)

But Frau Mozart,
we are less than 24 hours

- before the first performance.
- I know.

We cannot postpone
the opening again.

Don't worry.
I promise we'll open tomorrow.

He can do it. Trust me.

Mmm. (CLEARS THROAT)

(OPERATIC MUSIC PLAYING)

BOHAC: Gentlemen, the overture.

Careful, the ink is still wet.

(CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

Take a look.

(CHATTERING INDISTINCTLY)

(COACH RATTLING)

You're going straight into it.
No rehearsal.

Any questions?

(ALL MURMURING INDISTINCTLY)

You can do it, Bohemia's finest.

(ALL APPLAUDING)

(ALL CHEERING)

(MOZART CLEARS THROAT)

(BREATHING HEAVILY)

(ORCHESTRAL MUSIC PLAYING)

(MUSIC CONTINUES)

I thought there was no overture.

There wasn't.

Extraordinary.

(AUDIENCE CHEERING)

(AUDIENCE APPLAUDING)

(ORCHESTRAL MUSIC PLAYING)

(WOMAN SINGING OPERATICALLY)

(MUSIC STOPS)

(AUDIENCE APPLAUDING)

(ORCHESTRAL MUSIC PLAYING)

(AUDIENCE LAUGHING)

(OPERATIC SINGING CONTINUES)

(SOMBER MUSIC PLAYING)

(SNIFFLES)

(SINGING OPERATICALLY)

(SOMBER MUSIC CONTINUES)

(WOMAN SINGING OPERATICALLY)