Die lustige Witwe (The Merry Widow)
The Opera West Society in collaboration with UBC Opera
Since this production does not take place within the UBC School of Music academic year, any involvement of UBC Opera students in all aspects is voluntary and not required.
Operetta in Three Acts
Sung in German with English Surtitles
Music by Franz Lehár
Libretto by Viktor Léon and Leo Stein
after Henri Meilhac’s L’attaché d’ambassade (The Embassy Attaché)
Jacques Lacombe Conductor
Nancy Hermiston Director
Members of the Vancouver Opera Orchestra
Die lustige Witwe is a sparkling operetta set in Paris, where the tiny Balkan principality of Pontevedro faces financial ruin unless its wealthy widow, Hanna Glawari, keeps her fortune within the country. The Pontevedrian ambassador,Baron Zeta, devises a plan for Hanna to marry Count Danilo Danilovich, a charming but reluctant aristocrat who once loved her. Although Danilo still harbours deep feelings, pride prevents him from declaring his love, while Hanna refuses to make the first move. Complications arise through romantic intrigues involving Baron Zeta’s flirtatious wife, Valencienne, and the persistent Frenchman Camille de Rosillon. Misunderstandings, disguises, and witty schemes create a whirlwind of comic confusion at elegant parties and the famous garden of Hanna’s villa. Ultimately, Hanna reveals that her fortune would pass to any future husband, but only after marriage, exposing the selfish motives of her suitors. Danilo finally sets aside his pride and confesses his love. True love prevails and Pontevedro is saved!
