Prologue
At a German spa town where life revolves around the gaming tables, the characters of Dostoevsky’s novel gather under one roof. The retired General, ruined by debt, anxiously awaits news of the death of his wealthy aunt. He is counting on an inheritance that he intends to lavish on the object of his infatuation, Mademoiselle Blanche.
His stepdaughter Polina is in the power of the French adventurer de Grieux. Alexei, the family tutor, is hopelessly in love with her. The wealthy Englishman Mr Astley sincerely admires Polina but chooses to conceal his feelings. At her request Alexei goes to the casino in the hope of winning money for her.
Act I
Entering a gaming house for the first time, Alexei is immediately swept up in the fever of play. A sudden run of luck brings him a substantial win, which he gives to Polina without hesitation, declaring his love for her. Mr Astley remains on the sidelines but continues to show Polina genuine concern and consideration.
Determined to test Alexei’s devotion, Polina compels him to commit a reckless act. It costs the young man his position and marks the beginning of his rapid descent.
Act II
Granny’s unexpected arrival shatters the hopes of those who have already begun to dispose of her fortune in their imaginations. Intrigued by gambling, she goes to the casino. An exhilarating early win soon gives way to obsession, and Granny gradually becomes a prisoner of the roulette wheel, losing all the money she has brought with her on the long journey.
As the hopes of the General and de Grieux collapse, the relationship between Polina and Alexei reaches a crisis. Mr Astley, the only person untouched by self-interest, continues to care for Polina and tries to protect her from the impending catastrophe.
Act III
After breaking with de Grieux, Polina is distraught. Desperate to save the woman he loves, Alexei returns to the roulette table and wins an enormous sum. Yet money can no longer restore the trust that has been lost.
Polina refuses the help of her family tutor, realising that gambling now holds him more powerfully than love. Mr Astley takes responsibility for her care, his loyalty and integrity standing in stark contrast to Alexei’s obsession.
Alexei, meanwhile, has surrendered completely to the game. Mademoiselle Blanche, attracted by his newfound wealth, appears at his side, while his passion for roulette drives love, friendship and every hope of happiness from his life.
