Composer

:

Johann Strauss II

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Publication Date

:

1935

Die Tänzerin Fanny Elssler is an operetta composed by Johann Strauss II, with a libretto by Karl Haffner and Richard Genée. The operetta premiered on November 12, 1891, at the Theater an der Wien in Vienna, Austria. The plot of the operetta revolves around the famous Austrian ballerina Fanny Elssler, who was known for her captivating performances and her scandalous personal life. The story begins with Fanny returning to Vienna after a successful tour of America. She is greeted by her admirers, including the young composer Franz von Suppé, who is hopelessly in love with her. Fanny's arrival in Vienna causes a stir among the city's elite, who are eager to see her perform. However, Fanny is not interested in performing for the aristocracy and instead decides to stage a benefit performance for the poor. This decision angers the aristocracy, who see it as a snub. As the story unfolds, Fanny's personal life becomes the subject of gossip and scandal. She is accused of having affairs with several men, including Franz von Suppé. However, Fanny's true love is revealed to be the dancer Carlo, who is also her dance partner. The operetta is divided into three movements, each of which features a different aspect of Fanny's life. The first movement focuses on Fanny's return to Vienna and her decision to stage a benefit performance. The second movement explores the scandal surrounding Fanny's personal life, while the third movement centers on Fanny's love for Carlo. The music of Die Tänzerin Fanny Elssler is characterized by Strauss's signature waltzes and polkas, as well as lively dance numbers and romantic ballads. The operetta was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it remains a popular work in the operetta repertoire. Overall, Die Tänzerin Fanny Elssler is a charming and entertaining operetta that captures the spirit of Vienna in the late 19th century. With its lively music and engaging storyline, it is a testament to Johann Strauss II's talent as a composer and his enduring legacy in the world of operetta.

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