Composer

:

Alfred Cellier

Genre

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1886

First Performance

:

September 25, 1886

Average_duration

:

5:43

"Dorothy" is an English comic opera composed by Alfred Cellier with a libretto by B.C. Stephenson. The opera was first performed at the Gaiety Theatre in London on 25 September 1886. The plot of the opera revolves around the character of Dorothy, a young woman who is engaged to be married to a wealthy man named Sir William. However, she falls in love with a poor artist named Harry Sherwood and decides to elope with him. The opera is set in London in the late 19th century and features a number of comedic and romantic elements. The music is characterized by its light and lively melodies, which are often accompanied by witty lyrics and clever wordplay. The opera is divided into three acts, each of which features a number of musical numbers and ensemble pieces. The first act of the opera introduces the character of Dorothy and her fiancé Sir William. Dorothy is initially excited about her upcoming marriage, but she begins to have doubts when she meets Harry Sherwood, a struggling artist who is renting a room in her house. Dorothy and Harry fall in love, but they are unable to be together due to their different social statuses. In the second act, Dorothy decides to elope with Harry, but their plans are foiled when Sir William discovers their intentions. Sir William is initially angry, but he eventually forgives Dorothy and agrees to let her marry Harry. The act ends with a joyful ensemble piece in which the characters celebrate the upcoming wedding. The third act of the opera features the wedding of Dorothy and Harry, which is attended by a number of colorful characters, including a group of street musicians and a pair of bumbling detectives. The act ends with a rousing finale in which the characters sing about the joys of love and marriage. Overall, "Dorothy" is a charming and lighthearted opera that showcases Cellier's talent for composing catchy melodies and Stephenson's skill at crafting witty and engaging lyrics. The opera was a popular success when it premiered in 1886 and has remained a beloved work of English comic opera ever since.

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