Composer

:

John Philip Sousa

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1896

Average_duration

:

2:18

"El Capitan" is an operetta composed by John Philip Sousa, with a libretto by Charles Klein. The operetta was composed in 1895 and premiered on March 24, 1896, at the Tremont Theatre in Boston. It was Sousa's first and only operetta, and it was a great success. The plot of "El Capitan" is set in the 18th century in the Spanish colony of Peru. The story revolves around the character of El Capitan, a dashing and heroic Spanish officer who is sent to Peru to quell a rebellion. El Capitan falls in love with the beautiful and spirited Peruvian girl, Pepita, who is the leader of the rebellion. The two lovers are torn between their love for each other and their loyalty to their respective countries. The operetta is divided into two acts, with a total of 14 musical numbers. The music is typical of Sousa's style, with catchy melodies, lively rhythms, and a strong sense of patriotism. The most famous musical number from "El Capitan" is the march "El Capitan," which has become one of Sousa's most popular marches. The premiere of "El Capitan" was a great success, and the operetta went on to have a successful run on Broadway. It was also performed in London and other cities around the world. The success of "El Capitan" helped to establish Sousa as a composer of operettas, and he went on to compose several more, including "The Bride-Elect" and "The Charlatan." "El Capitan" is a classic example of the American operetta, with its blend of romance, adventure, and patriotism. The music is lively and catchy, and the story is full of drama and excitement. It remains a popular work in the repertoire of American musical theater, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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