AustLit

Adapted from the F. C. Burnand extravaganza, Harlequin Rumplestiltskin is said to have included 'a great deal of original matter and a plentiful variety of local hits' (Age 28 December 1867, p.7). The new material included the burlesque opening, transformation scene, and harlequinade.

The story involves the family of King Tagarag, who decrees that his scapegrace son Prince Poppet will marry Princess Supurba. Unfortunately, she loves the king's second son, Prince Lollius, while Poppet has already declared his love to a charming little miller's daughter, Rosekin. When he steals away to meet Rosekin, Poppet is followed by the court detective, Wriggeletto, who promptly tells the king. Enraged by his son's actions, the king throws him in prison. The distraught Rosekin is meanwhile accosted by Rumplestiltskin, a malignant demon dwarf, who tricks her into marriage with him by having her sign a parchment that she believes will set Poppet free. She stands up to Rumplestiltskin and refuses to fulfill her bargain. 'As the power of the demon continues only while his name remains unknown, the Genius of Australia - who takes a friendly interest in the party - appears and puts him to confusion. Thereupon the grand transformation scene takes place' (Argus 28 December 1867, p.5).

The programme of scenery was:

Scene 1. The Haunt of the Genius of Australia (incl. Grand Ballet).

Scene 2. Ante Chamber and Cloak Room in the Palace of King Tagarag.

Scene 3. Exterior of Jolinosio's Mill.

Scene 4. My Convict Cell.

Scene 5. Grandest Hall in the Palace of the King.

Scene 6. A Room in the Palace.

Grand Transformation Scene.

Harlequinade (played out in 'three well-known shops in a somewhat prominent street in [Melbourne]' and the telegraph office).

(Cited Argus 27 December 1867, p.8).

Two of the dozen or more songs incorporated into the production were 'Mrs Bond' (sung by Rumplestiltskin) and 'Slap Bang' (the finale).