Boston Lyric Opera: The Merry Widow

A VERY MERRY WIDOW INDEED...

Recently widowed Hanna has tongues wagging, just what will she do with her newly inherited fortune? Will she marry one of her fellow countrymen, keeping the fortune in Pontevedro (thus saving the country from near bankruptcy), or will her attentions be focused on someone else? Undoubtedly one of the world's favourite operas, The Merry Widow will always delight with its hilarious plot and memorable score! A first time BLO production, Director Lillian Groag brings u sa brand new book - set in Paris, 1913 as the City of Light parties in the dying days of freedom before The Great War envelopes them all.

The Merry Widow was first premiered in Vienna in 1905, adapted from the 1861 play The Embassy Attache. Since then, it has gone on to be the subject of myriad film and stage adaptations. But what is it really about?

WELCOME TO PONTEVEDRO.

Paris, 1913, widow Hanna Glawari (Susanna Phillips) is resisting the attempts of Baron Zeta, the Grand Duchy, to force her into marriage with a potential suitor, therefore keeping her newly gain 20 million francs in the economy. Throwing lavish parties and balls for Hanna, he settles on Danilo, (Roger Honeywell) a fine citizen of Pontevedro. But Danilo and Hanna have a history and he won't marry her for her money and she wants to hear the ever important 'I love You'.

Perhaps Baron Zetas should paying more attention to his wife Valencinne, whose head is being turned by swarthy Count Camille. Before you can say lost fan, the whole plan gets out of hand, with mistaken identity, rumour and pride all blending together to create this wonderful comedy. Oh, and who's guiding the reigns? Why, it's the Merry Widow herself...