Composer

:

Federico Chueca

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Zarzuela

Compose Date

:

1897

Average_duration

:

23:47

Agua, Azucarillos y Aguardiente is a zarzuela, a Spanish operetta, composed by Federico Chueca in 1899. The plot revolves around the lives of the working-class people of Madrid, particularly those who frequent the local taverns. The story follows the romantic entanglements of various characters, including the tavern owner, the waiter, and the customers. The opera is divided into three movements, each of which is named after a different drink: Agua (water), Azucarillos (sugar cubes), and Aguardiente (a type of liquor). The first movement introduces the characters and sets the scene in the tavern. The second movement focuses on the romantic relationships between the characters, including a love triangle between the tavern owner, her waiter, and a wealthy customer. The final movement brings the story to a close with a festive celebration in the tavern. One of the characteristics of Agua, Azucarillos y Aguardiente is its use of popular Spanish music and dance forms, such as the jota and the chotis. The opera also features comedic elements, including witty dialogue and physical humor. The music is lively and upbeat, with catchy melodies and rhythms that are easy to dance to. Agua, Azucarillos y Aguardiente premiered on January 23, 1899, at the Teatro Apolo in Madrid. It was an immediate success and became one of the most popular zarzuelas of the early 20th century. The opera has been performed countless times since its premiere and has been adapted for film and television. Overall, Agua, Azucarillos y Aguardiente is a lively and entertaining opera that captures the spirit of working-class life in Madrid. Its catchy music and humorous plot have made it a beloved classic of Spanish musical theater.

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