Lovers' Path : A Tale of Cupid & Psyche

a script for high school play...

Prelude :  

story teller: (please put a background music preferably love song instrumental)Cupid and Psyche is a story about love. It is also about beauty, truth, and goodness, for these are three aspects of love: and it is about death, the hereafter, and rebirth. Its simplicity touches our hearts, and at the same time tantalizes our minds with hints of teachings that youth experienced during the higher degrees of initiation. It deals about human consciousness, with its fall from on high, its captivity in realms of material illusion, its ages-long wanderings, and its metamorphosis as it awakens and recollects with increasing clarity its divine origin and nature. Hence love endeavours to rise, as a butterfly freed from its chrysalis, into higher dimensions where it lives among the immortals.

Cupid and Psyche is indeed a story of love, a love with transcendent power to raise the soul to divine awareness. As such, this is a love story to be cherished during those dark and silent moments that sanctify our lives.

: My friends……the beautiful story of Cupid and Psyche….

Music : harp and lyre instrumental ( 30 seconds)

SCENE I. (open curtain " stage 1)

Narration :  (background music : prayer to the goddess)Olympus was the residence of the divine family, the twelve most important ruling gods and goddesses of ancient Greece, who therefore were called the Olympians. There they all lived together in an enormous palace, high above the clouds. Mount Olympus is known as some mysterious region far above the earth.  It is within were the gods lived and slept and held court. Here they conversed of the affairs of heaven and earth; In its great halls they feasted on ambrosia and nectar and were entertained by Apollo’s lyre, the Graces and the Muses. Along the sides of its hall stood thrones, belonging to Olympians. No wind ever shakes the untroubled peace of Olympus; no rain ever falls nor snow. Such is a peaceful and serene place…a perfect abode for the gods and goddesses. Until such…..

(muses will enter)( 5 seconds)

Muse 1: O great goddess of love and beauty…..it seems this silver egg is about hatch………

Muse 2: This is the hour that the baby must see the Olympus…

Aphrodite : I believe so…..come dearly sisters and goddesses lets give him all our blessing.

(Aphrodite come closer rob the silver egg)…..sound effect : breaking of the egg

(all gods and goddesses gathered around) (child cupid come out)(cuddled by Aphrodite)

sound effect : crowd cheers and clapping

Zeus : Welcome to…. Olympus….and you will be named Cupid, you will be the bearer of Love and happiness from Olympus to the world.

sound effect : crowd cheers and clapping

Gods and Goddesses : Benvenuti nel mondo dei olimpo!!!!!

Sound effects :crowd voices on background seems there’s a party

Narrator : (music :  Enya : Wild Child " running time 1:30 mins) Cupid  is winged child, armed with bow and arrows, he shot the arrows of desire into the bosoms of both gods and men causing them to fall deeply in love. Cupid has always played a role in the celebrations of love and lovers. He was every gods and goddess favourite in spite of being mischievous.  He was Aphrodite’s constant companion. Sometimes he helps his mother to make her beautiful.  Very often Cupid holds the mirror for Aphrodite. They appear close to each other, just like any mother with her child. Both never thought that a tragedy awaits in their relationship. (gods & goddess exit left)

Narrator :(people enter from left & right of stage 2) (music : happy piano instrumental " running time whole music ) (people are dancing) On the other side, in the island of Crete in the land of Greece, a king and queen were totally endowed with so much abundance and prosperity. Their kingdom was blessed with temperate climate. It has short and mild winters and dry warm summers, along with the fertility of its plains. It is believed to be the home of the gods on earth. Added to the beauty of the land is the beauty of the three daughters of the king. But the youngest surmounted all these beauty. She has the beauty beyond description. It is said that her birth and existence has an intervention and the will of the goddesses.

(royal family will enter) (please give 5 seconds for entrance)

(stage 1)

King : Give hail to my youngest daughter……she will be named Psyche.

Queen : Psyche…..the fairest of them all.

Crowd : (Clap, yell shouted ) yeheyyyyy!

(butterflies will be released)( guest came to see her beauty)

(Music : Butterfly ballet- please start the music at 1:35’ and running time 60 seconds)

(dances of the ladies) Royal family exit left. Aphrodite & cupid enter right stage 1… Psyche & maiden remain stage 2

Narrator : It said that in one of Aphrodite’ and Cupid’s journey to the island of Crete…these young hearts had first met. Never did they know that someday both them will make a great and wonderful love story.

(Aphrodite bring cupid then cupid bumped psyche)(stop) ( Aphrodite & Cupid  exit left stage 2, Maiden & Psyche exit right stage 2)

(Music : A walk in the forest " running time 60 seconds)

Scene II.

Narrator: Times passed by and the King’s daughter grew up into exceeding fairness: of whom the two elder were of such comely shape and beauty, as they did excel and pass all other women living; whereby they were thought, worthily, to deserve the praise and commendation of every person, and deservedly to be preferred above the residue of the common sort:

People entrance left and right of stage 2

Music : (Dance of Spring- running time : whole music)

Sound Effect : Blowing of trumpet

 

(Grand entrance of the royalty family, the commoners and the suitors….some servants are serving fruits, food and wine.) ( please give at least 10 seconds interval) stage 1

 

King:      Ah! Winter is over and spring is in the air. Demeter has robed the Earth in the gorgeous colors of rebirth, all because her lovely daughter Persephone has made her yearly returns from the Underworld. But Demeter is not the only one with a lovely daughter. In fact I have three myself. Now hear me, you noblemen. These princesses are full grown and I will now allow worthy citizens to come courting for their fair hands.

 

 

Queen: And more gorgeous maidens you've never seen. Why I think my daughters are at least as pretty as Demeter's darling. In fact my youngest, Psyche, well she's more beautiful than .................. than even the goddess Aphrodite herself.

 

Psyche: Mother, you shouldn't say such things. It is not true, and you will offend the gods with such boasts.

 

Sister 1: It's certainly not true since I'm the most beautiful woman in the world.

 

Sister 2: Behave, you shameless air head.

 

Narrator: (music : Mozart serenade- running time whole music )  Psyche stand stair of stage 1 :The singular passing beauty and maidenly majesty of the youngest daughter did so far surmount and excel them two, as no earthly creature could by any means sufficiently express or set out the same. By reason whereof, after the fame of this excellent maiden was spread in every part of the city, the citizens and strangers there, being inwardly pricked by zealous affection to behold her. They came daily by thousands, hundreds, and scores, to her father's palace. They were astounded with admiration of her incomparable beauty. They did no less worship and reverence her, with crosses, signs and tokens, and other divine adorations, according to the custom of the old used rites and ceremonies. (maidens will take the tokens and gift up)

 

Suitors came worshipping and giving gifts to Psyche

 

Bacchus: Great king, I would take good care of your little sugar plum, Psyche. Certainly I am the most eligible suitor since I am the wealthiest. Yes, my little sweet peach, with your lips as luscious as grapes, you are indeed the apple of my eye.

 

Creon: Well, Bacchus, if eating your way to romance was possible, you'd be the victor because you're the biggest glutton around. But I believe the lady Psyche would prefer a gentleman of charm and eloquence like myself over some fat oaf.

 

Draco: Psyche doesn't need a pansy like you for a husband either, Creon. She needs a real man, a soldier, like me to defend her honor and beauty.

 

Bacchus: I must admit you're as strong as an ox, Draco, Unfortunately, you're as dumb as an ox too.

 

Draco: Why you lousy swine. I ought to split your overstuffed belly open as well as chop off the head of this wimp, Creon.

 

Creon: Oh my! I can't stand the sight of blood. (Especially my own) / collapsed.sound effect : big falling object

 

Bacchus: Just try it, you witless barbarian. Guards!

 

 Sound effect : sound of terror

 

Captain: Shall we run him through, Lord Bacchus?

 

Sergeant: Or just chop out his tongue?

 

King: Enough of this fighting my noblemen. Quit strutting around like a bunch of vain peacocks.

 

Sound effect : festive instrumental " running time 30 seconds (people continue the party and merry making)

 

Sister 1: (aside): Ooooo, but I like the way Draco struts.

 

 

Psyche:  Listen ,All of you are worthy citizens. But I will not pick any of you. Instead at the next harvest time I will go to the temple of Apollo and I will let the priestess of Apollo choose my husband. That way the decision will be the will of the gods of Olympus.

 

Creon: You are as wise as you are gracious dear princess.

 

Queen: Shall we continue with the feast, my King?

 

King: By all means, more food and drink. (Maidens come from stage 1)

 

Bacchus: Did someone say food? Ah yes, Three large clusters of grapes for me.

 

(Music : Dance of Spring " running time 60 seconds) (people continue the party and merry making)

 

Guest and visitors started to exit one at a time and only Psyche remained.

People exit left & right stage 2 royal family exit left stage 1

Narrator :  (music : A little night music "running time 120 seconds ) The fame of her beauty was so great that strangers from neighbouring countries came in crowds to enjoy the sight, and looked on her with amazement, paying her that homage which is due only to Venus herself. In fact Venus found her altars deserted, while men turned their devotion to this young virgin. As she passed along, the people sang her praises, and strewed her way with chaplets and flowers.

 

(maidens come to beautify her and suitors come to give tribute to her)

(maidens enter from left & right stage 1/ suitors left & right stage 2

 

(Music : The Doom March revenge " start the music at 1:40’ up to 2:10 ‘) (Aphrodite enters) stage 3

Aphrodite: Behold the parents of this young lady… behold the Lady Aphrodite renounced throughout all the world, with whom a mortal maiden is joined now partaker of my honour; my name registered in the city of heaven, is profaned and made vile by terrene absurdities. If I shall suffer any mortal creature to present my majesty in earth, or that any shall hear about a false surmised shape of my person. But she, whatsoever she be that had usurped my honour, shall shortly repent her of her unlawful estate. These mortals will soon regret. Sound effect : thunder and lightning

Some maidens exit in left & right stage 2/ psyche & 2 maidens in left stage 1 LIGHTS OFF (1)

 

SCENE III

 

 

Narrator  (LIGHTS ON ): background music : Entry of the Gladiators (Thunder and Blazes) The Classic Circus Music : running time 120 second)At Mount Olympus…the once angel-like Cupid had rapidly grown to become a winged man. Yet he is still  so busy striking his golden arrow. ( God and goddesses enter converse with each other while Cupid id playing fool with the gods)

 

Gods & goddess enter left & right stage 1

 

Zeus : Settle down Olympians…… Let the muses in.

 

Music : Dances of the Muses- running time : whole music

(muses will enter and dance while Cupid still is fooling a around) enter left & right stage 2

Zeus: I say, Eros, god of love, the one the Romans call Cupid, be careful with those arrows. Just a nick from one of them would make anyone fall in love with the first creature they see.

Apollo: Yes Cupid, you've put Zeus in lots of embarrassing situations after being struck by your love arrows. He's gone around dressed as a swan, as a bull, and many other silly disguises when he's fallen in love.

Zeus: Well, I'm not the only one who has looked like a fool after being hit by Cupid's arrows. I distinctly remember that you, Apollo, fell in love with a tree.

Hermes: That's right! He got a mouthful of leaves while kissing a laurel tree.

(gods laugh)

Apollo: Oh, don't remind me of that folly.

Artemis: Though I am the goddess of the hunt, and my arrows are deadly accurate, I'll admit that even the gods fear Cupid's arrows more than mine.

Ares: Yes, Cupid's barbed shafts are about as potent as Zeus' mighty thunderbolts in their effects.

Cupid: All of you act like falling in love is a terrible thing, when it can be the greatest joy.

Hera: It can be a wonderful experience, but you are such a prankster, striking folks at such awkward times, right my dear. (grabs Zeus' ear)

Zeus: True, my queen.

Hermes: Now Cupid, you trickster, you've got to admit you played some pretty dirty practical jokes, like making someone fall in love with an ugly toothless hag, or worse still, with a braying donkey.

 

Sound effect : thrilling sound running time 10 seconds

(Everybody stay focus as Aphrodite enter with great anger) Aphrodite enter right stage 2

 Aphrodite: Hear me Cupid, I want you to use your swift arrows to make someone suffer a horrible fate. I want them to fall in love with a loathsome monster!

Zeus: You seem filled with bitterness, Aphrodite. It does not become you as goddess of love and beauty.

Athena: Yes, Aphrodite, your anger seems to have clouded your mind with vengeance. I do not think you are making a wise decision.

Aphrodite: I have been insulted by a group of humans. The Queen of Phyrgia has claimed that her daughter Psyche is more beautiful than me. Furthermore the people of that kingdom seem to agree. They no longer bring offerings to my temple and take their gifts to Psyche instead.

Demeter: That is pretty bad, but your punishment is too severe and ........

Aphrodite: And you will soon learn that Psyche's suitors are taking their gold, grains, and flowers to her rather than to your temple, Demeter.

Demeter: What! They're beginning to neglect me too?

Aphrodite: As well as Hera, Athena, and Artemis. (gods mutter)

Hera: We appeal to you, Zeus, chief of the Olympian council. These unruly humans must be punished.

Zeus (raises thunderbolt):  sound effect : thunder and lightning :Hear my decree. I will grant Aphrodite's wish to punish these humans. Now tell us your desire Aphrodite.

Aphrodite: First, I ask that Demeter strike the land with a drought so that no crops will grow. Next, I ask that when Psyche visits Apollo's temple to find out about a husband, that Apollo tell her she must be given as a bride to a terrifying creature. Finally I want Cupid to take some frightful being to the mountain top near Apollo's temple.

Poseidon: If he needs help, I will aid Cupid in finding some dreadful beast. There are many slimy monsters lurking in my sea kingdom.

Aphrodite: I don't care what the thing looks like.......... just as long as it's something that even the gods will fear. And when Psyche is left on the mountain top, Cupid shall strike her with an arrow so that she falls in love with this creature.

                    : my dear child, by motherly bond of love, revenge the injury which is done to thy mother, by the false and disobedient beauty of a mortal maiden, and I pray thee without delay, that she may fall in love with the most miserable creature living, the most poor, the most crooked, and the most vile.

Cupid : I will , my ever dearest mother….there’s no wish I cannot follow…if this would only be the thing that would please you….I will do it for you….

Zeus: I think you are being too cruel Aphrodite, but I have given my word. However, as soon is Psyche is married to this fearful thing, then I want Demeter to end the drought and allow crops to flourish once more. Now depart, you Olympians. (thunderbolt) sound effect : thunder and lightning  gods & goddess exit separately left & right stage ½

LIGHTS OFF (2)

SCENE III

LIGHTS ON

Narrator :  (background music : First Love - Utada Hikaru (Piano Instrumental running time 180 seconds) That night Aphrodite  ask his son Cupid to visit Psyche and pierce the usurper with his arrow so to burn with a foolish promiscuous love for any beast entering her vision’s path.

 

STAGE 4

 

(Cupid enters Psyche’s room, he roams around encircling her trying to see what beauty she got. Psyche is sleeping with her face half cover with her hair.)

 

Cupid : So….she’s the mere mortal who offended my beloved mother? What beauty does she have why men honoured her and disregard my mother?

 

(Cupid come closer and is ready with his arrow, Psyche moves exposing her whole face)

 

Cupid: Oh!......she’s so perfect and pure……a real beauty…. So bliss and awesome…

  (Cupid’s hands are trembling ,he was magnetized by the beauty of Psyche,  he move from corner to corner, confused whether to strike her with her arrow or not )

 

Narrator : (sound effect : puzzlement ) background music here " continuation of Utada Hikaru)With the quiver of arrows and delicate bow, Cupid sought out Psyche, but on seeing her all his and his mother’s plans fell apart. He was so stunned and drawn in by Psyche’s raw beauty that his enchanted arrows fell from his grasp, one piercing his own foot, and so Cupid was poisoned by his own magic. He fell deeply and passionately in love with the young mortal woman. He swore that no other man, or god should have Psyche but he and wished Psyche were immortal so that she might live as long as he.

 

 

(the arrow dropped on Cupid’s feet….. he fell in love, he come closer to hold her face and give her a kiss…then Psyche moves)        

Cupid :   (went farther to Psyche) You will be my queen……………. And no other mortals will fall in love with you….you will be mine forever. (Cupid fed away) EXIT STAGE 4

 

Note : Background music of Utada hikaro will be up to here

 

 

 

SCENE IV

 

Narrator:  (background music : Very Sad Piano Music running time: complete music until the last part of scene IV )The curse had started. While everyone worshipped and admired Psyche, her beauty was so awesome that men were fearful to express their longing and desire for her or make plain their sentiments. Both her sisters though less lovely than Psyche had gotten married. So Psyche sat sad and solitary, only to be admired but not loved. This has bothered her parents do much. They began to suspect some curse had fallen on his youngest daughter.

 

Psyche stage 4, sisters & lovers stage 2

 

(Psyche walked around, confused, the two sisters passed by so sweet with their husband)

(Psyche sitting down looks so sad and gloomy)

(Enter King & Queen)

 

King:  My daughter,  what is it that bothering you? If I could be of help, tell me…..your father is here to listen.

 

Psyche: Father….I just wonder…why I never fall in love at all?....Why people just admired me and never love me at all? Is this the punishment of having such beauty?

 

Queen: My dearest… it’s not….tomorrow before the day breaks we will journey to the town of Miletus. We will consult and ask the advice of the oracle of Apollo. Now go…give a rest to your beauty.

 

(her parents embraced her and exit) she was left all alone……while Cupid is watching her from a far ) stage 2 left

 

SCENE V

The journey to Apollo’s oracle (from stage 2 to stage 1 to stage 1 to stage 3)

Sound effect :  strong wind, chirping of birds, sounds of wild animals

 

(please give at least 15 seconds interval here before the speaking line of sister 1)

Sister 1: Good heavens! This is such a long, hot climb and I've forgotten to bring my large fan. Oh no, it's worse than I thought -- I've begun to sweat. Can't we stop and rest.

Draco: An exceptional suggestion. My feet are so sore and I could use a refreshment break.

Sister 2: What a couple of wimps you two are. We just stopped 15 minutes ago. It's a good thing we make this trip only once a year.

Psyche: Take heart, my dear sisters. Only a few more steps and we will reach Apollo's temple.

Queen: Look, here is the gate to the temple now.

 

Music : Elemental Chant " running time 60 seconds

(Priestess dancing with the fire) stage 3

King: Oh noble priestess of Apollo. We seek answers for two questions. First, what must be done to end this terrible drought? And second, who should my daughter, Princess Psyche marry?

Sound effect: Chimes

(Apollo appears )

Queen: The priestess is not alone. Apollo, the Sun god is with her.

Sound Effect : Wind howling

(Smoke effects)

Apollo: There is one answer to both questions. The drought will end as soon as Psyche is married. No mortal man would be Psyche’s husband; instead she must be dressed in deepest mourning and placed on the summit of a mountain to be taken away by a winged serpent, stronger than the gods themselves, to make his wife. Psyche must be left on this mountain top, and when darkness comes she will be wedded to a creature who strikes fear even in the hearts of the gods. (Exit)

Sound Effect : Cymbals

(Queen collapsed all gathered around her)

Sister 2: This is awful news.

Queen: We can't leave Psyche to be prey for this monster.

(Everybody walked away slowly) from stage 3 to stage 1 to stage 2 left

(CLOSE CURTAIN)

Narrator:  (back ground music : Native American Chants & Music - by Phil Thornton running time : complete music until the last speaking line of psyche) : Misery came as the lamentable news was told. They dressed Psyche up as though she was to attend her on funeral and walked with her to the top of the hill. Though her parents wept grievously, she kept her courage and said she was glad the time had come. They went in despairing grief leaving her helpless on the top of the mountain and returned to the palace and mourned all their days for her.

As she sat atop the mountain she wept and trembled not knowing what was to come.  FROM STAGE 2 TO STAGE 1 TO STAGE 3

 

(Everybody joined in the funeral procession of Psyche, bringing with them flowers and fruits etc.)

 

(Cupid watched them at the background) STAGE 2 LEFT

 

ROYAL FAMILY STAGE 2 CENTER

Psyche:  , “Why, my dear parents, do you now lament me? You should rather have grieved when the people showered upon me undeserved honours, and with one voice called me a Aphrodite. I now perceive that I am a victim to that name. I submit. I will gladly give up my throne or my life if it means saving my people from famine and this severe drought. Perhaps it won't be as bad as we fear. Now leave me here and pray that the Olympians will be merciful.  Lead me to that rock to which my unhappy fate has destined me. Come what May…..whoever would be my husband, I will love you come what may.

(exit all IN STAGE 2 RIGHT : Cupid in background

Music : Come What May- Moulin Rouge)

“Come What May”

[Cupid:]

Never knew I could feel like this

Like I've never seen the sky before

Want to vanish inside your kiss

Every day I love you more

Listen to my heart and you hear it sing

Telling me to give you everything

Seasons may change, winter to spring

But I love you, until the end of time

 

[Chorus:]

Come what may

Come what may

I will love you until my dying day

 

[Psyche:]

Suddenly the world seems such a perfect place

Suddenly it moves with such a perfect grace

(Both)

Suddenly my life doesn't seem such a waste

(Psyche)

It all revolves around you

(Both)

And there's no mountain too high

No river too wide

Sing out this song and I'll be there by your side

Storm clouds may gather

And stars may collide

[Cupid:]But I love you

[Psyche:]I love you

Until the end of time

 

[Chorus:]

Come what may

Come what may

I will love you, until my dying day

[Choir]

[Everyone:]

I will love you (Come what may)

Oh Yes I will love you (Come what may)

I will love you, until my dying day.

SCENE VI

Narrator :  (Music : Nature Sound Effects and Weather Sound Effects SFXsource.com : )As she sat atop the mountain she wept and trembled not knowing what was to come. Through all her mourning she ends up into a deep sleep. Suddenly a warm breath of wind caressed her and she felt herself being lifted up and away until she came down upon a soft meadow with flowers so fragrant. She had forgotten all her fears here and fell asleep. As she woke beside a bright river; and on its bank was a stately mansion that was fit for the gods themselves.

 

(CUPID CARRY PSYCHE FROM STAGE 3 TO STAGE 1)

 

OPEN CURTAIN

 

 

(Psyche  wandered around)  music : Relaxation Meditation Nature Sounds- running time : 20 seconds)

 

Servants (voices) : “Sovereign lady, all that you see is yours. We whose voices you hear are your servants and shall obey all your commands with our utmost care and diligence. Retire, therefore, to your chamber and repose on your bed of down, and when you see fit repair to the bath. Supper awaits you in the adjoining alcove when it pleases you to take your seat there.”

 

Psyche: Oh..Thank you!

 

 

Narrator: (Music: music : You are not alone running time 180 seconds until the last speaking line of psyche : Psyche gave ear to the admonitions of her vocal attendants, and after repose and the refreshment of the bath, seated herself in the alcove, where a table immediately presented itself, without any visible aid from waiters or servants, and covered with the greatest delicacies of food and the most nectareous wines. Her ears too were feasted with music from invisible performers; of whom one sang, another played on the lute, and all closed in the wonderful harmony of a full chorus.

 

(Psyche touching a lot of things in the palace…., the jewelries, decorations, cloth, etc.)

(Psyche eating at the dinner table all alone)

 

 

(please give at least  40 seconds interval before this speaking line)

Psyche: This is strange. I should be afraid, but I'm not. There are delightful foods to eat and lovely silk clothing. This mountain top is such a cool, pleasant place. And it is so beautiful with the sun going down.

(As she was about to take a bite of the apple, it drops when she heard the voice)

Offstage Cupid: I hope you enjoy the gifts my invisible servants have left for you, Psyche.

Psyche: (sound effect : After Effects:Sudden Impact Youth 2009: )Who are you?

Cupid: I am your husband.

Psyche: I can't see you, but you have a kind voice.

Cupid: I am kind indeed and love you dearly, Psyche. However, you're not allowed to look at me. But if you trust me we will know happiness.

Psyche: I'm not sure why, but I do trust you. (exit)

CLOSE CURTAIN

Narrator: ( music : instrumental of  “ I have dreamed” running time 30 seconds)  (Cupid is circling around the room of Psyche)She had not yet seen her destined husband. He came only in the hours of darkness and fled before the dawn of morning, but his accents were full of love, and inspired a like passion in her. She often begged him to stay and let her behold him, but he would not consent. On the contrary he charged her to make no attempt to see him, for it was his pleasure, for the best of reasons, to keep concealed. STAGE 4

 

Music : I Have Dreamed Lyrics   (King and  I)

[Cupid]

I have dreamed that your arms are lovely,
I have dreamed what a joy you'll be. 
I have dreamed every word you whisper. 
When you're close, 
Close to me. 
How you look in the glow of evening 
I have dreamed and enjoyed the view. 

In these dreams I've loved you so 
That by now I think I know 
What it's like to be loved by you,
I will love being loved by you. 

[Psyche]

Alone and awake I've looked at the stars, 
The same that smile on you; 
And time and again I've thought all the things

That you were thinking too. 

I have dreamed that your arms are lovely,
I have dreamed what a joy you'll be. 
I have dreamed every word you whisper. 
When you're close, 
Close to me. 
How you look in the glow of evening 
I have dreamed and enjoyed the view. 

In these dreams I've loved you so 
That by now I think I know. 

[BOTH]

What it's like to be loved by you.
I will love being loved by you.

 

Psyche : I beg you..Please let me see your face so I might know who you are..

 

Cupid : Do you  not know me by my touch? My voice? “Why should you wish to behold me?”.“Have you any doubt of my love? Have you any wish ungratified? If you saw me, perhaps you would fear me, perhaps adore me, but all I ask of you is to love me. I would rather you would love me as an equal than adore me as a god.”

 

Psyche : But I must see you!

 

Cupid: It is best, you do not. Never asked me again dearest Psyche or I shall have to leave you.

 

Narrator : (Music : Soft Instrumental) STAGE 1This reasoning somewhat quieted Psyche for a time, and while the novelty lasted she felt quite happy. But at length the thought of her parents, left in ignorance of her fate, and of her sisters, precluded from sharing with her the delights of her situation, preyed on her mind and made her begin to feel her palace as but a splendid prison, When her husband came one night, she told him her distress, and at last drew from him an unwilling consent that her sisters should be brought to see her.

 

Psyche: I beg you…..please allow me to see my sisters and least they would know that I am alive.

 

Cupid: I would warn you…..their presence would lead to your downfall…..and it would crush our love….it will give you imminent peril and danger. They will give you great sorrow and would lay yourself with destructions……Listen and obey my commands….or you would lose me forever.

 

Psyche: I do obey you my dear husband.

 

Narrator:  (music : The King and I - Shall I tell you what I think of you : )After that he was departed, and the night passed away, Psyche lamented and cried all the day following, thinking that now she was past all hope of comfort, in that she was closed within the walls of a prison, deprived of human conversation, and commanded not to aid or assist her sorrowful sisters, no nor once to see them: Thus she passed all the day in weeping .sShe was mad, totally mad, she felt as if she’s just a servant, a prisoner….deprived of everything. STAGE 1

 

Psyche : (music instrumental : The King and I - Shall I tell you what I think of you)

Your servant! Your servant! 
Indeed I'm not you servant -- 
Although you give me less all the servants hey --
I'm a free and independent you see ….. you see
Shall It tell you what I think of you? 
You're spoiled! 
You're a conscientious lover 
But your spoiled. 
Giving credit where it's due 
There is much I like in you
But it's also very true 
That your spoiled! 

All that bowing and kow-towing 
To remind you of your royalty, 
I find a most disgusting exhibition.
I wouldn't seem a servant cat 
To demonstrate my loyalty 
By taking this ridiculous position 
How would you like it if you were ah… me
Playing my part as I could . 
Moving around on this lonely, dark place. 
Thinking the dust on the road!... 

Foods! Foods! All of your people give me Foods! 
Yes, Your Majesty; 
No, Your Majesty. 
Tell me how long to go, Your Majesty;
Make some more dresses, Your Majesty, 
Don't let me go off out here, Your Majesty. 
Give me a kiss, if you please Your Majesty 
Give us a kick, if you would, Your Majesty 
Oh, That was good, Your Majesty!

(sound effect : Sudden Attack! - Original Action Music Composition running time : until the last speaking line before scene vi)

(please give here at least 10 sec interval before this speaking line)

 

Cupid: "Is it that you perform your promise, my sweet wife? What do I find here; pass you all the day and the night in weeping? And will you not cease in your husband's arms? Go to, do what you will, purchase your own destruction, and when you find it so, then remember my words, and repent, but too late."

 

Psyche : (Hold a knife & point to her breast) If you will not consent my will, if you would not grant me to see my sisters and speak with them and comfort them…..this life would be useless…… Then I should die.

 

Cupid : Your wish is granted but…"Beware that you should not be  moved by the pernicious counsel of your sisters, to see the shape of my person, lest by your curiosity you be deprived of so great and worthy estate."

 

Psyche :  "Sweet husband, I had rather die than to be separate from you: for whosoever you be, I love and retain you within my heart, as if you were mine own spirit or Cupid himself: but I pray you grant this likewise, that you would command your servant Zephyrus to bring my sisters down into the valley, as I was brought here.

SCENE VII

(sound effect : Sudden Attack! - Original Action Music Composition)

 

(Walking through to visit the place where they leave Psyche)

 

(please give at least 10 seconds interval before this line)

STAGE 3

Sister 1: Oh no! I've broken a fingernail.

Sister 2 (hands on hips): Is that all you can think of? It's been several months since our sister was left up here as the prey for some loathsome beast. The least you could do is come up here to leave flowers in memory of her.

(Psyche arrived running) FROM STAGE 4 TO STAGE 1 TO STAGE 3

(please give 10 seconds interval before this line)

Psyche: My sisters!

Sister 1: It's Psyche.

Sister 2: This is marvellous! We'd thought you were dead, devoured by that horrible monster who was to be your husband.

Psyche: Well you can see that I'm not dead. And my husband is not a dreadful monster either. He's wonderful.

Sister 2: What is he like?

Psyche: He brings me presents every day -- jewellery, gorgeous clothes, and delicious foods.

Sister 1: But what does he look like?

Psyche: Well........

Sister 1: Oh Psyche, don't tell me. You've never seen him.

Psyche: Well, no I haven't. He doesn't allow me to see him in the light.

Sister 1: Ooooo, he's probably too ashamed for you to see him. I'll bet he really is some disgusting creature with a dozen snake heads and green slimy tongues.

Psyche: No his shape and voice are too much like a human's; he can't be some ugly monster.

Sister 2: Then he's something worse, some fiend, probably a cannibal. He's just giving you nice foods so that you'll be tasty when he butchers you and cooks you up. Here take this lamp and knife.  (Give the knife)Tonight when he's asleep sneak up on him and stab him through the heart. Remember Apollo said that even the gods fear this fellow.

Psyche: That's true.

Sister 1: After you've killed him you can return home. And if you're not back in a week, we'll send flowers, cause we'll know you were made into monster stew.

Sister 2 (shoves sister): Psyche, do as I say and kill this evil creature tonight. (exit - mumbling -- Monster stew! You numskull, don't you have enough sense not to say stuff like that!)

 

Narrator: (music :dance of envy running time : from  30’-1:00’ of the music ) Psyche filled their laps with gold, silver and jewels and she walked away. When they were as they took their ways homeward to their own houses, they murmured with envy and  they bear  hatred and jealousy against Psyche.

 

Stage 2 center

 

Sister 1: Oh! What a cruel and contrary fortune are we. We have divers destinies;  we are the elder two and we are married to strange husbands who made as handmaidens, while  our youngest sister has so great abundance of treasure and gotten a God to be her husband.. Did you see sister, what was in the house? What great store of jewels, what glittering robes, what gems, and what gold we trod on? That if she has a husband according as she affirms, there is none that live this day happier in the entire world than she. But I, poor wretch, have married a husband elder than my father, more bald, more weak than a child, and that locked me up all day in the house."

 

Sister 2 : And in faith I am married to a husband that hath the gout, twofold, crooked, not courageous in paying my debt;  I cannot abide to see our younger sister in such great felicity; Did you see how proud and arrogant she handled us even now? how she cast a little gold into our laps, and being weary of our company, commanded that we should be borne and blown away? Verily I live not nor am a woman, but I will deprive her of all her bliss: And if you, my sister, be so far bent as I, let us consult together, and not utter our mind to any person,  nor yet to our parents, nor tell that ever we saw her. But now let us go home to our husbands and poor houses, and when we are better instructed, let us return to suppress her pride.

 

Narrator: So this evil counsel pleased these two evil women, and they hid the treasure which Psyche gave them, and tore their hair, renewing their false and forged tears. When their father and mother beheld them weep and lament still, they doubled their sorrows, and grief, but full of ire and forced with envy, they took their voyage homewards, devising the slaughter and destruction of their sister.

 

 

 

SCENE VIII

 

Narrator :  (music : Kenny G - Love theme from Romeo & Juliet running time: 180 : seconds until before narrator start for the next scene )When Psyche was left alone (saving that she seemed not to be alone, being stirred by so many furies) she was in a tossing mind, like the waves of the sea; and although her will was obstinate, and resisted to put in execution the counsel of her sisters, yet she was in doubtful and divers opinions touching her calamity. Sometime she would, sometime she would not, sometime she is bold, sometime she feared, sometime she mistrusted, sometime she is moved, sometime she hates the beast, sometime she loves her husband: but at length the night came, when as she made preparation for her wicked intent. Psyche resisted these persuasions as well as she could, but they did not fail to have their effect on her mind, and when her sisters were gone, their words and her own curiosity were too strong for her to resist. So she prepared her lamp and a sharp knife, and hid them out of sight of her husband.

 

Please give at least 5 seconds interval here

Psyche: I believed that my husband was wonderful, but now I'm not sure. Could he really be some sinister monster? What's that? I hear him softly snoring. I don't think I could kill him, but I'll at least look at him.

(Psyche moved around trying to see the face of Cupid)

 

Please give  10 seconds interval here

 

Narrator :  (music :New moon Enya : (1:35’-) Soon after her husband came, and when he had embraced her, he fell asleep.  (Psyche went out of the room and get the night and lamp)Then Psyche (somewhat feeble in body and mind, yet moved by cruelty of fate) received boldness, and brought forth the lamp, and took the knife, so by her audacity she changed her kind. But when she took the lamp, and came to the bedside Psyche saw a glorious body, she greatly feared and all trembling she fell on her knees. It was Cupid, the very God of love, at the bed's feet lay his bow, quiver, and arrows, the very weapons of so great a God.  Psyche curiously hold and marvel at the weapons of her husband, she took one of the arrows out of the quiver, and pricked herself withal, wherewith she was so grievously wounded that the blood flow, and thereby of her own accord she added love upon love; then more and more broiling in the love of Cupid, she embraced him fearing the measure of his sleep. But while she was in this great joy, there fell out a drop of burning oil from the lamp upon the right shoulder of the God.

 

Sound effect : Impact Sound

Cupid : “O foolish Psyche, is it thus you repay my love? After having disobeyed my mother’s commands and made you my wife, will you think me a monster and cut off my head? But go; return to your sisters, whose advice you seem to think preferable to mine. I inflict no other punishment on you than to leave you forever. Love cannot dwell with suspicion.

Cupid:   Psyche I loved you so much, I married you and disobeyed even my mother Aphrodite. It is forbidden that gods marry humans. That's why I came only in the darkness. But you have not trusted me. You have come to burn me with hot oil and to slay me with a knife. My dear, where there is no trust, there can be no love. (jump from stage 4 to stag2 left)

Sound effects : flapping of wings

Psyche: Cupid, wait! I didn't mean to burn you, but my hand trembled when I saw you. Why did I ever doubt him?

Sound effects Chimes

Narrator :  (music : desperation of love (instrumental:Guitar/ running time: complete music background  ) So saying, he fled away, leaving poor Psyche prostrate on the ground, filling the place with mournful lamentations. When she had recovered some degree of composure she looked around her, but the palace and gardens had vanished, Psyche went through all various places in search for her beloved husband; through her journey she reached her beloved town. She found herself in the open field not far from the city where her sisters dwelt. There she met her sisters. She repaired thither and told them the whole story of her misfortunes, at which, pretending to grieve, those spiteful creatures inwardly rejoiced. STAGE 2 CENTER

Sister 1 : Oh, what happen to you sister dear are you bringing lots of gold for me?

Sister 2 : You look so messy and devastated…..does it mean you have already seen your horrible husband. Tell us how does he look?

Sister 1 : Nevertheless….ugly, slimy wicked creatures..

Psyche : You’re wrong, you’re all wrong. Why did I listen to you? It was you, both of you who told me such a lie… (cry) I was wrong.

Sister 1 : Oh my? Those are the words of Apollo we just remind you then… and you have to be thankful to us for such concern.

Sister 2 : With the way you act, you seems to fall in love with the monster now.

Psyche : He is not such a monster….. he is a god…… he is Aphrodite’s son… he is Cupid….. and I truly love him.

Sister 1 & 2 : Oh , Haaaaa? Cupid ? (run through) “For now, he will perhaps choose one of us.”

Sister 2 : Oh, Cupid where are you? Please make me to be your mistress.

Sister 1: and Why you? It should be me….Cupid ? I’m pretty, much prettier than Psyche, Take me with you…. (exit)

(enter the queen and the king---shocked )

Queen : My daughter, Psyche, you are alive. Oh great god…..

Psyche : Mother….

Queen : Sshh…enough come.

King : My dearest daughter, I’m so happy for your return, It calls for a banquet….Apollo’s prophecy is not true.

Psyche : Father, Mother, there is no way that I would stay…… I need to go… I need to see my husband.

Queen & King : Husband?

Psyche : Yes, my parents, I married not to any horrible monster, I married the god of love, Cupid……

Queen & King : Ha?

Psyche : I need to go….I’ll be back when things were over.  (exit)

King : She married a god?

Queen : Oh,   what happened in here?..... (exit STAGE 2 RIGHT)

 

PART II

LIGHT OFF

Scene I

Narrator : (music : Somber (Saxophone): Psyche wandered day and night, without food or rest, in search of her husband. She cast her eyes on a lofty mountain having on its brow a magnificent temple.

 

(Psyche wondering around)

(please give 10 second interval here)

 

Psyche : Perhaps my love, my lord, inhabits there.

 

Narrator :  STAGE 2 (music : Somber (Saxophone running time: until the end of naaration): She had sooner entered  the temple when she saw heaps of corn, some in loose ears and some in sheaves, with mingled ears of barley. Scattered about, lay sickles and rakes, and all the instruments of harvest, without order, as if thrown carelessly out of the weary reapers’ hands in the sultry hours of the day.

This unseemly confused the pious Psyche so she separate and sort everything to its proper place and kind, believing that she ought to neglect none of the gods, but endeavour by her piety to engage them all in her behalf. The holy Demeter , whose temple it was, finding her so religiously employed, then spoke to her.

 

Demeter : STAGE 1 STAIR  “O Psyche, truly worthy of our pity, though I cannot shield you from the frowns of Aphrodite, yet I can teach you how best to allay her displeasure. Go, then, and voluntarily surrender yourself to your lady and sovereign, and try by modesty and submission to win her forgiveness, and perhaps her favour will restore you the husband you have lost.”

 

Narrator : Psyche obeyed the commands of Demeter and took her way to the temple of Aphrodite, endeavouring to fortify her mind on what she should say and how best to please  the angry goddess, feeling that the issue was doubtful and perhaps fatal.

 

(Music :007 The World is not Enough Intro ( up to 50 sec only):

 

Please give at least 50 sec interval before this speaking line)

 

STAGE 3

Aphrodite : Most undutiful and faithless of servants, do you at last remember that you really have a mistress? Or have you rather come to see your sick husband, yet laid up of the wound given him by his loving wife? You are so ill"favoured and disagreeable that the only way you can merit your lover must be by dint of industry and diligence. I will make trial of your housewifery.”

Psyche : Aphrodite, goddess of love, please help me.

Aphrodite (w/ folded arms): Psyche you have caused people to neglect my temple. Then you stole my son to be your husband. Now you have badly burned Cupid's shoulder. After all this you expect my help?

Psyche: Please dear goddess, I beg your aid. Speak to Cupid for me.

Aphrodite: Well, since I am obliged to hear the prayers of those who appeal in the name of love, I will speak to Cupid. But first you must accomplish several tasks. First separate this large bag of millet and poppy seeds into 2 piles by dawn. (exit)

Psyche: Well here's one black seed, and there's a white one. Here's another black one. Oh, what am I thinking. There are millions of these black and white seeds mixed together. I can never get them sorted before dawn. I'm lost. ( lays down)

Hera : Psyche, I would gladly help thee, but I am ashamed to do anything contrary to the will of my daughter-in-law Aphrodite, whom always I have loved as mine own child; moreover I shall incur the danger of the law, whereby I am forbidden. Yet, I have wilful servants to retain will of their master. (sound effect :whistle)

( Music :  Nutcracker March " piano running time : complete music )

(Mice dancing) ENTER FROM STAGE 1 RIGHT

Cheeps: Look, Psyche's in a troubled sleep.

Peeper: Now's the chance for us to repay her for all the kindness she's shown to animals.

Whiskers: Yes, she's even made sure that we mice get bread crumbs and bits of cheese.

Stubby: Now let's separate these seeds into two piles. We're experts at handling little things like seeds.

Cheeps: And experts at eating little things. How about eating the black poppy seeds and leaving the white ones?

Peeper: Hush up, you ridiculous rodent! You heard Aphrodite, she told Psyche to separate them by morning, not eat them. Now let's get to work.

( Music :  Nutcracker March " piano  complete music)

(mice exit)STAGE 1 RIGHT

Scene II

 (Music :007 The World is not Enough Intro ( up to 50 sec):

Aphrodite: Good morning Psyche. I must admit that I am surprised to see you've finished sorting by dawn.

Psyche: Not half as surprised as I am, goddess Aphrodite.

Aphrodite: This is no work of yours, wicked one, but his, whom to your own and his misfortune you have enticed.

(So saying, she threw her a piece of black bread for her supper and went away.)

Narrator :  Next morning Venus ordered Psyche to be called and said to her.

Aphrodite : “Behold,  there is a grove which stretches along the margin of the water. There you will find sheep feeding without a shepherd, with golden"shining fleeces on their backs. Go, fetch me a sample of that precious wool gathered from every one of their fleeces.”

Psyche : I will my goddess, if it pleases you and erase your anger.

Narrator :  Music :Emotional song - guitar acoustic by Daniel Cripps  running time : 60 seconds) :Psyche travelled from land to sea in quest for her great mission. Artemis and Athena took pity on her and give her all their comfort. STAGE 2 CENTER

(Please give at least 10 seconds interval before the speaking line)

Athena : Don’t lost hope dearest Psyche, you are such a great woman. I give you a piece of my wisdom so that you can discern in whatever lies ahead.

Artemis : I know I’m brave , yet I haven’t seen such mortal as brave as you. Behold and take my courage and perseverance, these will help you to bear the entire obstacle you meet along your journey.

Psyche : What great goddess are you, how can I repay you for these.

(Until she arrived in the shore of an open sea) Ocean Waves [Sound Effect]

(please give 15 seconds interval before the speaking line)

Poseidon : STAGE 2 LEFT O maiden, severely tried, tempt not the dangerous flood, nor venture among the formidable rams on the other side, for as long as they are under the influence of the rising sun, they burn with a cruel rage to destroy mortals with their sharp horns or rude teeth. But when the noontide sun has driven the cattle to the shade, and the serene spirit of the flood has lulled them to rest, you may then cross in safety, and you will find the woolly gold sticking to the bushes and the trunks of the trees.

Psyche : I was indeed such a great advice from the sea god as kind as you. You  owe much of all the thanks.

Narrator : STAGE 3  (music : Terminator 2 theme song  running time 60 seconds)Thus the compassionate river god gave Psyche instructions how to accomplish her task, and by observing his directions she soon returned to Aphrodite with her arms full of the golden fleece; but she received not the approbation of her implacable mistress.

Psyche : My lady, here it is that you wanted,

Aphrodite : I know very well it is by none of your own doings that you have succeeded in this task, and I am not satisfied yet that you have any capacity to make yourself useful. But I have another task for you. Here, take this box and go your way to the infernal shades, and give this box to Persephone and say, ‘My mistress Venus desires you to send her a little of your beauty, for in tending her sick son she has lost some of her own.’ Be not too long on your errand, for I must paint myself with it to appear at the circle of the gods and goddesses this evening. If you succeed I will speak to Cupid on your behalf

Psyche: Thank you, Aphrodite. I'm not sure how I will succeed with all the obstacles in the Underworld. But I will try my best if it means I might be reunited with my beloved Cupid. (exit)

Aphrodite: I'm not sure how you will succeed either, dear child. The dangers in the Underworld are terrifying. There is the deadly River Styx to cross and the gate to Hades is guarded by Cerberus, the vicious 3 headed dog.

 

 

Scene III

Narrator :   STAGE 2 RIGHT(music : Twilight Soundtrack  running time 60 seconds)Psyche was now satisfied that her destruction was at hand, being obliged to go with her own feet directly down to Erebus. She know that the only way to go to the land of the dead is die. There she make no delay of what was not to be avoided, she goes to the top of a high tower to end herself. She believes that the shortest way to descend the underworld is die.

Psyche : I have no other means to do, I don’t even know where the route is. I believe the soonest way to reach the underworld is to die….I’ll do it if it means Cupid and Aphrodite’s forgiveness. (prepared the rope to hung herself)

Hades : “Why, poor unlucky girl, do you design to put an end to your days in so dreadful a manner? And what cowardice makes you sink under this last danger who has been so miraculously supported in all the former? “When Persephone has given you the box filled with her beauty, of all things this is chiefly to be observed by you, that you never once open or look into the box nor allow your curiosity to pry into the treasure of the beauty of the goddesses.”

Psyche : Ha? You mean I can descend in the underworld though I am alive?

Hades : Hahahahahahaha……by all means lovely Psyche. I’ll bring you there.

Psyche : Thank you, god Hades, I will remember your words and obey your commands.

EXIT STAGE 2 LEFT ENTER STAGE 1 LEFT

Narrator : Psyche, encouraged by this advice, obeyed it in all things, and taking heed to her ways travelled safely to the kingdom of the dead. She was admitted to the palace of Persephone.  She found Persephone to be both a gracious and generous hostess.

STAGE 1

Hades : My lovely wife, look who’s with me?

Persephone : Oh, the lovely Psyche, Cupid’s lady love.

(Psyche bow her head with great respect)

Persephone : Come join us in this banquet. And be honoured to be my guest.

Psyche : Thank you, but I believe I have but few hours to stay to accomplish my mission.

Persephone : Wouldn’t you put a little of this palatable food in your mouth, I graciously prepared them for you.

Psyche : It is indeed a great pleasure to have such a warm welcome but my time is too scarce and I need to go.

Persephone : I respect your will, here take this box to Aphrodite, with your great and unselfish love, I pray that the gods will reward you with your persistence.

Psyche : Thank you, you will be rewarded for your vast kindness. CLOSE CURTAIN

Narrator :  STAGE 2 CENTER Presently the box was given to her, shut and filled with the precious commodity. Then she returned the way she came, and glad was she to come out once more into the light of day. But having got so far successfully through her dangerous task a longing desire seized her to examine the contents of the box.

Psyche : Shall I, the carrier of this divine beauty, not take the least bit to put on my cheeks to appear  more beautiful in the eyes of my beloved husband!”

Music : Voices of the Goddess (complete music Psyche will lip sync) STAGE 2

WHILE SINGING CUPID WATCH HIM AT STAGE 4

Narrator : So she carefully opened the box, but found nothing there of any beauty at all, but an infernal and truly Stygian sleep, which being thus set free from its prison, took possession of her, and she fell down in the midst of the road, a sleepy corpse without sense or motion.

Psyche : Oh! There’s nothing in here. But…what is this that I felt? I felt so sleepy………

Narrator :  (Music : Kenny G - Love theme from Romeo & Juliet running time : make it a background music until the last speaking line of scene III) But Cupid, being now recovered from his wound, and not able longer to bear the absence of his beloved Psyche, slipping through the smallest crack of the window of his chamber which happened to be left open, flew to the spot where Psyche lay, and gathering up the sleep from her body closed it again in the box, and waked Psyche with a light touch of one of his arrows. STAGE 2 CENTER

Psyche : Oh, what’s happening in here…..my beloved husband!

Cupid : “Again, you almost perished by the same curiosity. But now perform exactly the task imposed on you by my mother, and I will take care of the rest.  Apollo….. with your mercy, and with all the favors I had done with you, Its my turn to ask in return. (Apollo appear). STAGE 1

Apollo : Oh…hahahahaha. What brought dismay to this young fellow of love? Are you a victim of your own fraud? Hahahahaha.

Ares : Can I join this conversation? It seems you have lost your courage my dear Cupid? Where is that little boy who has been so naughty and ridiculous?

Cupid : I had enough, now I beg you. Please do bring Psyche to most safe place away from my mother’s hated. I will come soon to see her.

Apollo & Ares : Oh, hahahahah. The servant arrow struck his master. (with a swift put Psyche to sleep and carry her to Delphi.) EXIT ON STAGE 2 LEFT/ CUPID IN STAGE 2 RIGHT

Scene IV

Narrator : Cupid, as swift as lightning penetrating the heights of heaven, presented himself before Zeus with his supplication. Zeus lent a favouring ear, and pleaded the cause of the lovers so earnestly with Aphrodite that he won her consent.

Music : Entry of the Gladiators (Thunder and Blazes) The Classic Circus Music : running time : 60 seconds

(at Mount Olympus " all the gods and goddesses gathered together)

GOD/ GODDESSES ENTER STAGE 1 LEFT & RIGHT

CUPID ENTER STAGE 2 RIGHT

Cupid : Oh, mighty Zeus, hear me! You know how earnestly I love her, help me stop all her suffering .give me some means to appease my mother’s anger.

Zeus : God and Goddesses, now hear me….. extend thy extraordinary help to the poor Psyche. Hide her in the wrath of  Aphrodite. Make her worthy to be an immortal… and you Hermes, with your speed and wit go forth, seek for lovely Psyche.

Hermes : I will my god…. It would be a pleasure to make two loving hearts unite. Ayehhh. (STAGE 2 LEFT )

(Music : The Doom March revenge 10 seconds )

Aphrodite (secretly): Do not find her for Zeus, find her for me, and you will receive great reward from this beautiful goddess. Hope you heard it right.

(gods and goddess exit)

Scene V

(at Cupid and Aphrodite’s den) STAGE 3

(Please put a background music suited for intense argument)

Aphrodite : Is this an honest thing? Is what you’ve done honourable to your parent? Is this the reason that you had violated and broken the commandment of your mother?  You trifling boy, you varlet, and without all reverence, If you cannot do your work well, then I will despise some worthy servant and  give him these wings, this fire, this bow and these arrows. You worthless, disrespectful being.

Cupid : My beloved mother, love has no option to choose, nor has its reason to decide. Love is the force that transforms and improves the Soul of the World. Love is such a wonderful thing, All we need is love.

Cupid:]

Love is a many splendored thing,

Love lifts us up where we belong,

All we need is love!

[Aphrodite:]

Please, don't start that again

[Cupid:]

All you need is love!

[Aphrodite:]

A girl has got to eat!

[Ewan:]

All you need is love!

[Aphrodite:]

She'll end up on the street! (sigh)

[Ewan:]

All you need is love!

[Aphrodite:]

Love is just a game.

[Cupid:]

I was made for loving a lady,

You were made for loving me.

[Aphrodite:]

The only way of loving that lady,

Is simply to stay away.

[Cupid:]

Just one night,

Give me just one night.

[Aphrodite:]

There's no way,

Cause you will stay.

[Cupid:]

In the name of love!

One night in the name of love!

[Aphrodite:]

You crazy fool,

I won't give in to you.

[Cupid:]

Don't, treat me this way.

I can't survive, without her sweet love,

Oh please, don't treat me this way.

[Aphrodite:]

You'd think that people would've had enough of silly love songs...

[Cupid:]

I look around me and I see it isn't so, oh no.

[Aphrodite:]

Some people wanna fill the world with silly love songs

[Cupid:]

Well what's wrong with that?

I'd like to know.

Cause here I go... again...

Love lifts us up where we belong!

Where eagles fly,

On a mountain high!

[Nicole:]

Love makes you act like youre a fool.

Throw your lives away,

For one happy day.

[Cupid:]

I could be heroe...

Just for one day.

[Aphrodite:]

You, you will be mean.

[Cupid:]

No, I won't.

[Aphrodite:]

(sigh) And I, I'll drink all the time.

[Cupid:]

We should be lovers...

[Aphrodite:]

You can't do that.

[Cupid]

We should be lovers!

And that's a fact.

[Aphrodite]

Though nothing, would keep you together.

[Cupid:]

We could steal time...

[Cupid & Aphrodite:]

Just for one day.

I could be hero,

Forever and ever,

I could be hero,

Forever and ever,

I can be hero...

[Cupid:]

Just because I... will always love her..

[Aphrodite:]

I...

[Cupid & Aphrodite:]

...Can't help loving...

[Cupid:]

...Her...

[Aphrodite:]

How wonderful life is,

[Cupid and Aphrodite:]

Now you're in, the world.....

Cupid : That’s it mother….that’s what I feel for her. (exit)

Aphrodite : Come here….we are not done yet with this pretty argument.

Cupid : Settle yourself , beloved mother, I’ll be back when your anger subsides……and when you can take Psyche as my wife. EXIT STAGE 2 LEFT

(Aphrodite throwing things in anger)

( all the goddesses arrived) FROM STAGE 1 TO STAGE 3

{please give a 10 second interval here}

Aphrodite : "Verily you  come to comfort my sorrow, but I pray you with all diligence to seek out one whose name is Psyche, who is a vagabond, , and as I think, you are not ignorant of the brunt of my son Cupid, and of his demeanour, which I am ashamed to declare."

Athena : "What is the cause, Aphrodite, or how has your son so offended, that you should so greatly accuse his love, and blame him by reason that he is amorous? And why should you seek the death of her, whom he does fancy?

Demeter : We most humbly entreat you to pardon his fault, if he have accorded to the mind of any maiden. Do you not know that he is a young man? Or have you forgotten of what years he is? Does he seem always to you to be a child?

Artemis : You are his mother, and a kind woman, will you continually search out his dalliance? Will you blame his luxury? Will you bridle his love, and will you reprehend your own art and delights in him?

Hera : What God or man is he, that can endure what you sow or disperse in every place, and to make a restrain there of within your own doors? Aphrodite,  if you will continue such agony on him you will be the cause of the suppression of the public places of young dames."

Aphrodite : Enough of all your words….let me think mine. Hah….I lost so much of my beauty because of this obedient brat. I need to leave. Give me time to think..For now I need to compose myself and regain my beauty down there to the sea where I belong. (exit then meet Ares)

Ares : Where is the lovely goddess going? Does this simply mean running away.

Aphrodite : Hey….you ,get lost… (exit) STAGE 3 SIDE TO STAGE 2 LEFT/ GODDESS EXIT STAGE 1 RIGHT

Narrator : In this sort these Goddesses endeavoured to pacify her mind, and to excuse Cupid with all their power, although he were absent, for fear of his darts and shafts of love. But Aphrodite would in no wise assuage her heat; but thinking that they did but trifle and taunt at her injuries, she departed from them, and took her voyage towards the sea in all haste.

PART III

 Music :Sudden Attack! - Original Action Music Composition :

Scene I

 

STAGE 2 CENTER SCATTERED

 

Narrator : On the other hand, Hermes had been to various places seeking for Psyche. He didn’t know that Apollo had hidden her in one of her oracle in Delphi. Hermes went through the place of Psyche and asked of her abode. Hermes had seen the misery of the king and the queen and its entire people.

 

Hermes: How long would I seek for this girl and I cannot find her. Ahm…. Attention gentlemen, anyone whosoever could tell any tidings of a King's fugitive daughter, the servant of Aphrodite named Psyche, should bring word to Hermes, and for reward of his pains he should receive seven sweet crosses of Aphrodite.

Narrator : After that Mercury had pronounced these things, every man was inflamed with desire to search out Psyche.

Suitors : I will find for her.

Suitor 2 : Me too.

Narrator : Yet because of Apollo’s great power, none has ever find the lovely Psyche in her holy abode.

Scene II

STAGE 1

Narrator : In Mount Olympus, the Olympian ruler, Zeus calls for a meeting of all the council god.

Zeus : Hermes,  to call all the Gods to council, and if any of the celestial powers did fail of appearance, he should be condemned in ten thousand pounds.

Hermes : Ayeh, My Lord

Music : Entry of the Gladiators (Thunder and Blazes) The Classic Circus Music : running time : 60 seconds

Narrator : This sentence was such a terror unto all the gods that the high theater was replenished

Please give 60 sec interval before this speaking line

STAGE 1  & 2 SCATTERED

Zeus : "O ye Gods, registered in the books of the Muses, you all know this young man Cupid, whom I have nourished with mine own hands, whose raging flames of his first youth I thought best to bridle and restrain. It suffice in that he is defamed in every place for his adulterous living, wherefore all occasion ought to be taken away by mean of marriage: he hath chosen a maiden that fancy him well, and hath bereaved her of her virginity, let him have her still and possess her according to his own pleasure."

Aphrodite : O Father, marriage was made between unequal persons, in the fields without witnesses, and not by the consent of their parents, wherefore the marriage is illegitimate.

Zeus : And you, my daughter, take you no care, neither fear the dishonour of your progeny and estate, neither have regard in that it is a mortal marriage, for it seems unto me just, lawful, and legitimate by the law civil."

Poseidon & Hades : Very  well, Aphrodite, and we can attest on that.

Gods : And we too.

Goddess : Same with us here….the goddesses.

 Zeus : Hermes, let Cupid in

Hermes : Yes, my lord

(please give 10 seconds interval here)

(enter Cupid and Hermes ) FROM STAGE 2 RIGHT

Zeus : Oh , Goodness, Mt. Olympus has been as gloomy as a tomb ever since Cupid started moping over that woman. How long are you going to mourn over her Cupid?

(Cupid meditating walking back and forth)

(please give 10 sec interval here)

Cupid:   (SIT DOWN STAIR STAGE 1)She is not just an ordinary woman. She is a rare human indeed, mighty Zeus. Although my burn has healed, my heart still feels wounded.

Aphrodite : Oh my poor son, how much grief do I gave you. Cupid and great Zeus, please help me. My anger and jealously have blinded me and now I repent of my cruelty. First, Cupid you need to know that Psyche never intended to harm you. But the terrible prophecy of Apollo and the wagging tongues of her sister scared her into believing that you were a monster. I am so sorry for all this unbecoming. This should not be done by the Goddess of beauty and love. Do accept my humble pardon, you all Olympians.

Hera : We are so pleased with you repentance, dear daughter, it’s not too late….

Athena : We can have the two hearts unites.

Apollo : And now I can confess….. Psyche is hidden in my temple.

Hermes : Oh you, trickster….

Zeus: Speedy Hermes, go to the rescue of the maiden. And you go too, Cupid. Hurry ,and bring her in. (exit both)

Scene III

STAGE 4

Narrator : (Music : Kenny G - Love theme from Romeo & Juliet running time :  60 seconds)In Apollo’s oracle, Psyche has almost given up her hope. She never knows if she could still see her loving husband. She sat in dismay and does no other but weep.

Hermes : Behold, lovely Psyche, I’m bringing you such a great surprise.

Psyche : Ha?........  My beloved Cupid……I almost die not seeing you. Its…

Cupid : Compose yourself, lovely wife…..Say no more. You are totally forgiven. Now come, I’ll bring you to my beloved mother.

Psyche : But……she has such a great anger on me…

Cupid : Sshhhhshhhh…… (and kiss her)

Hermes : Ayeahhh…this is it.

 

-Cupid-

If I never knew you

If I never felt this love

I would have no inkling of

How precious life can be

 

And if I never held you

I would never have a clue

How at last I'd find in you

The missing part of me

 

In this world so full of fear

Full of rage and lies

I can see the truth so clear

In your eyes

So dry your eyes

 

And I'm so grateful to you

I'd have lived my whole life through

Lost forever

If I never knew you

 

-Psyche-

I thought our love would be so beautiful

Somehow we made the whole world bright

 

I never knew that fear and hate could be so strong

All they'd leave us where these whispers in the night

But still my heart is singing

We were right

 

-Psyche-                       (Cupid)

If I never knew you (There's no moment I regret)

If I never knew this love (Since the moment that we met)

I would have no inkling of (If our time has gone too fast)

How precious life can be (I've lived at last...)

 

-Cupid-

And I'm so grateful to you

I'd have lived my whole life through

Empty as the sky

 

-Psyche-

Never knowing why

 

-Both-

Lost forever

If I never knew you

We Kiss in a Shadow Lyrics

 

(Cupid fly with Psyche)

(In Mount Olympus)

(Please give 10 seconds interval here)

Zeus : There is one problem Aphrodite. You know that it is forbidden that an Olympian god and a human be married. How shall we handle this?

Aphrodite: Lord Zeus, if Psyche is allowed to drink from the ambrosia, the nectar of the gods she too will become immortal. Let her join us as a goddess on Mt. Olympus.

Zeus: A splendid idea. (please give 60 seconds interval ) Look here comes the lovely couple now. Fair Psyche, we have agreed to honor your marriage to Cupid. Furthermore we shall give you the cup of ambrosia so that you will never die.

PSCYHE & CUPID ENTER FROM STAGE 2 RIGHT

(Hera give the ambrosia to Zeus ) (Music : Happy music instrumental)

(please give 5 seconds interval here)

Zeus : Hold, Psyche, and drink to the end thou may be immortal, and that Cupid may be thine everlasting husband."

Psyche:  (Drink)This is marvelous. It exceeds my wildest dreams. (Confetti)

(Music : Happy music instrumental running time 60 seconds)

 

Narrator :  (music : Johann Strauss - Vienna Waltz )By and by the great banquet and marriage feast was sumptuously prepared. Cupid sat down with his dear spouse between his arms: Hera likewise with Zeus, Hades with Persephone and all the other Gods in order. Ganymede filled the pot of Zeus, and Poseidon served the rest. Their drink was nectar, the wine of the Gods. The muses decked up the house with roses and other sweet smells, and threw about balm as they sang with sweet harmony, Apollo tuned pleasantly to the harp while Aphrodite danced finely.  

(music : Johann Strauss - Vienna Waltz  running time " complete the music)

Link : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4J0MKsG_is&tracker=False

(Cupid and Psyche dances soon they are followed by Zeus and Hera, Hades and Persephone, Aphrodite with Apollo, Demeter with Hermes, Athena with Ares, Artemis with Poseidon.)

SCATTERED STAGE 2 & STAGE 1

Psyche : Oh no, I was not able to finish my task but first I had better finish my task.

(all the gods and goddesses stop)

Gods & Goddesses : What?

Psyche : (give the box)  (give 10 seconds interval here)Here, my fairest mother!

Aphrodite: What? This is unbelievable. Could Persephone actually send some of her beauty in a box?

Psyche: She and I agreed that you were by far the most beautiful being of the universe, mother Aphrodite. But Persephone is goddess of the spring and sends this beauty to you. (open the box and presents rose)

(Please give 5 seconds interval)

Aphrodite:  Oh, Come my favoured daughter, and you too my son. Let us all taste of the nectar from the cup of life.

(merry making) (graceful exit of gods and goddesses) STAGE 2 LEFT & RIGHT STAGE 1 LEFT & RIGHT

Cupid : Now you belong to me….. I love you……. You are my moon.

Psyche : It’s the greatest love that I felt, it’s in here…. And its only you…… I love you …..my sunlight

STAGE  3 & 4

[Psyche]

You are sunlight and I moon

Joined by the gods of fortune

Midnight and high noon

Sharing the sky

We have been blessed, you and I

 

[Cupid]

You are here like a mystery

I'm from a world that's so different

From all that you are

How in the light of one night

Did we come so far?

 

[Psyche]

Outside day starts to dawn

 

[Cupid]

Your moon still floats on high

 

[Psyche]

The birds awake

 

[Cupid]

The stars shine too

 

[Psyche]

My hands still shake

 

[Cupid]

I reach for you

 

[BOTH]

And we meet in the sky!

 

[Psyche]

You are sunlight and I moon

Joined here

Bright'ning the sky

With the flame

Of love

 

[BOTH]

Made of

Sunlight

Moonlight

 

[Psyche]

Tomorrow will be the full moon

I can bring friends to bless our room

With paper unicorns and perfume

If you want me to

 

[Cupid]

Unicorns? sure. . .

Narrator :  (please add a very romantic instrumental background here)The myths of the Greek goddess Psyche exemplify a woman's search for authentic personal growth, a reminder that the integration of our experiences, however sad or frightening they may be, matures and transforms us, like the symbol of the butterfly emerging into the light from its dark cocoon. The story of Cupid and Psyche teaches us that we'll go to incredible lengths to try to live up to the deals we make in the face of fear. Breaking those deals forces us to go through tests and journeys that we never thought were possible. Too often we look to others to fix our problem which lead to more tasks. It also teaches us about the courage and determination that brings success in the end. It's only after she's crossed the river Styx and risked danger and death that she finally gains the strength to say no to other person's needs and stand on her own two feet. Something has to change, and the first thing to do so is Psyche. As she changes, the whole world changes with her. She sheds her mortal fate and steps into her destiny as a goddess. Lastly, True Love is not in looks - it is in hearts and souls!

GODS & GODDESSES IN STAGE 1 / ROYAL FAMILY STAGE 4/ SUITORS STAGE 3/ MAIDENS STAGE 2 LEFT / SUITORS STAGE 2 RIGHT. CUPID AND PSYCHE STAGE 2 CENTER

(close curtains)