The Elixir of Love July 2014 | Page 8

SYNOPSIS Adina’s holiday camp on the English South Coast, 1962 Act 1: Campers rest in a sunny poolside area. Nemorino, the camp’s handyman, watches the beautiful camp proprietress, Adina, as she reads from a well thumbed Mills and Boon. He loves her but wonders if she is now beyond his reach. Giannetta, a bawdy young camp entertainment officer and the campers ask Adina about her book. She tells them the story of how Tristan won the heart of Isolde by drinking a magic love potion. Captain Belcore, a sturdy military officer, alone on his summer vacation promptly introduces himself to Adina and asks her to marry him. Adina declares that she is in no hurry to make up her mind but promises to think over the offer. Left alone with Nemorino, Adina tells him that his time would be better spent in town, looking after his sick uncle, than hoping to win her love. Or he should do as she does: change her affections every single day. Nemorino reminds her that one can never forget one’s first love. Dulcamara, a travelling comedian, magician and shyster, makes a grand entrance with his slightly dazed assistant. When the Comi