Most people have heard about operas and musicals, but did you know there is an art form called operetta?
Operetta is something in between an opera and a musical, and for all the musical theatre lovers out there – it might be a great option when exploring classical music since it was the precursor of the modern musical theatre.
Just like musicals it contains spoken dialogue, songs and sometimes dance. It is usually shorter than an opera and features light and amusing characters.
Operetta originated in France in the mid-1800s and spread across the world. Different styles were created in countries such as Austria, Germany, England, Spain, Philippines, Mexico, Cuba and the United States.
Below are some of my favorite operetta clips.
Glitter & Be Gay
Operetta: Candide
Composer: Leonard Bernstein
Singer: Kristin Chenoweth
We’re the Ladies of the Chorus
Operetta: The Merry Widow
Composer: Franz Lehár
Singers: Kelli O’Hara and ensemble
Drink Drink Drink (The Drinking Song)
Operetta: The Student Prince
Composer: Sigmund Romberg
Singers: Mario Lanza (voice) and men chorus
Mein Herr Marquis
Operetta: Die Fledermaus
Composer: Johann Strauss II
Singers: Edita Gruberova and chorus
Do you have a favorite operetta? Please share in the comments!
I love musical films !!!