Composer

:

Rudolf Friml

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1924

"Rose Marie" is an operetta composed by Rudolf Friml with lyrics by Otto Harbach and Oscar Hammerstein II. The operetta premiered on September 2, 1924, at the Imperial Theatre in New York City. The story is set in the Canadian Rockies and follows the life of Rose Marie La Flemme, a young woman who is forced to leave her home and work as a singer in a saloon to support her family. The plot revolves around Rose Marie's love for Jim Kenyon, a Mountie who is sent to investigate a murder in the area. Jim is initially suspicious of Rose Marie's involvement in the crime, but as he gets to know her, he falls in love with her. However, their love is threatened by the arrival of Rose Marie's former lover, the outlaw Blackie Lamont, who wants to take her away with him. The operetta is divided into three acts and features several memorable songs, including "Rose Marie," "The Mounties," and "Indian Love Call." The music is characterized by its use of folk melodies and dance rhythms, which reflect the Canadian setting of the story. "Rose Marie" was a huge success when it premiered, running for 557 performances on Broadway and becoming one of the most popular operettas of the 1920s. It was later adapted into a film in 1936, starring Jeanette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy, which further popularized the music. Overall, "Rose Marie" is a charming and romantic operetta that captures the spirit of the Canadian wilderness and the struggles of its inhabitants. Its memorable music and engaging plot have made it a beloved classic of the genre.

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