Composer

:

Arthur Sullivan

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1892

Average_duration

:

110:04

Haddon Hall is an opera composed by Arthur Sullivan with a libretto by Sydney Grundy. The opera was first performed on September 24, 1892, at the Savoy Theatre in London. The plot of the opera is set in the 16th century and revolves around the love story of Dorothy Vernon, the daughter of Sir George Vernon, and John Manners, the son of the Earl of Rutland. The opera is divided into three acts. The first act takes place in the gardens of Haddon Hall, where John Manners and his friend Rupert Vernon are hunting. John falls in love with Dorothy Vernon, who is also in the garden. However, Dorothy's father, Sir George Vernon, does not approve of their relationship because John is a Protestant and Dorothy is a Catholic. In the second act, John and Dorothy plan to elope, but their plan is foiled by Sir George Vernon. John is arrested and imprisoned in Haddon Hall. Dorothy tries to rescue him, but she is caught and imprisoned as well. The third act takes place in the great hall of Haddon Hall. John and Dorothy are brought before Sir George Vernon, who is still angry about their relationship. However, he eventually relents and allows them to marry. The music of Haddon Hall is characterized by Sullivan's signature style of catchy melodies and witty lyrics. The opera features several memorable songs, including "Oh, Hush Thee, My Baby," "The Sun is Setting," and "The Nightingale Sings." Haddon Hall was a commercial success and ran for 204 performances at the Savoy Theatre. The opera was also well-received by critics, who praised Sullivan's music and Grundy's libretto. Today, Haddon Hall is considered one of Sullivan's most charming and delightful operas.

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