In the area of Der lustige Krieg, there has always been a continuous and growing interest. Whether for its relevance in history, its impact on today's society, or its influence on different aspects of everyday life, the Der lustige Krieg has captured the attention of academics, experts, and enthusiasts alike. Over the years, it has been debated and analyzed in detail, seeking to better understand its importance and role in the world. In this article, we will explore the different facets and perspectives of Der lustige Krieg, examining its evolution over time and its impact today. Additionally, we will review the most recent research on the topic, seeking to shed light on new trends and advances that are occurring in the field of Der lustige Krieg.
Der lustige Krieg (The Merry War) is a three-act operetta composed by Johann Strauss II. The work was first performed on 25 November 1881 at the Theater an der Wien. Its libretto was by F. Zell (Camillo Walzel) and Richard Genée. The operetta was well received at its premiere, and was performed 69 times during its first run.[1]
Role | Voice type | Premiere cast, 25 November 1881[2] Conductor: Johann Strauss II |
---|---|---|
Violetta, Countess Lomelli, a widow | soprano | Caroline Finaly |
Artemisia, Princess of Massa-Carrara | contralto | Rosa Streitmann |
Else Groot | soprano | |
Balthasar Groot, her husband, a tulip merchant from Holland | baritone | |
Marchese Sebastiano | tenor | Alexander Girardi |
Colonel Umberto Spinola | tenor | |
Riccardo Durazzo | baritone | |
Fortunato Franchetti | bass-baritone | |
Biffi | tenor | |
Pamfilio | baritone | |
First lady | soprano | |
Second lady | mezzo-soprano | |
Third lady | contralto | |
First commissioner | tenor | |
Second commissioner | bass | |
Colonel van Scheelen | spoken | |
Officers and their wives, soldiers and people (chorus) |
It concerns a dispute between two states. The 'war' between them is played out as a game of love between Colonel Umberto Spinola, the commander-in-chief of the Genoese army, and the widowed Countess Violetta. Despite the name of the operetta, there is no fighting or bloodshed in the 'war'.
Johann Strauss: Der lustige Krieg, Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, Wiener Jeunesse-Chor, Wiener Motettenchor