An Embarrassing Position (Piano/Vocal Score)

An Embarrassing Position, based on a sketch by Kate Chopin, takes place in New Orleans in the 1890s. Willis Parkham is a young bachelor running for political office. Late one night after a so-called "political meeting," Eva Delvigne, the lovely and naive daughter of a family friend, unexpectedly announces herself. Before Mr. Parkham can figure out what to do, there is another knock at the door, but this time it’s gasp! June Jinkins, the gossip columnist for the New Orleans Times-Democrat!

 

Late at night, after a long poker game, Willis Parkham is chastised by his maid, Ms. Dara. She cautions him to abandon his wild, bachelor ways for the decorum of a married life if he truly wishes to live up to his political ambitions.

 

The doorbell rings, revealing a surprise visit from the young Eva Delvigne, whom Parkham secretly loves. Her father has sent her a telegram telling her he will not be able to return home that evening, and Eva has decided to place herself under Parkham’s protection for the night.

 

Before he can explain to her the impropriety of her being along in a single man’s home, there is another surprise visitor at the door. Parkham hastily stashes Eva in another room, and in walks June Jinkins, the gossip columnist for the New Orleans Times-Democrat! June, informed that there may have been a political dimension to the poker game, tries to tempt Parkham into giving her an exclusive interview, complete with a cover photo. When June discovers the presence of Eva, Parkham finds himself in quite an embarrassing position. Desperate, he tells June that the woman in question is not actually Miss Eva Delvigne. After whispering a further explanation to her, June runs off, promising to return soon.

 

Parkham asks Ms. Dara to fetch Father Linden, adding that the situation is urgent. Parkham timidly attempts to comfort Eva and reveal his plan to restore her honor, but he finds it difficult to speak his mind clearly. June reenters with Miss Paige, an apprentice photographer, who clumsily begins setting up her equipment and arranging Parkham and Eva. When Ms. Dara returns with Father Linden, Parkham quickly proposes marriage and Eva joyfully accepts. As the young couple poses for what will now be a wedding photo, we start to wonder if perhaps the presence of the three young ladies isn’t such a coincidence after all

 

2013 NOA Chamber Opera Competition Winner