Composer

:

Victor Herbert

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1910

First Performance

:

1910

Average_duration

:

108:15

'Naughty Marietta' is an operetta composed by Victor Herbert, with a libretto by Rida Johnson Young. The operetta premiered on November 7, 1910, at the New York Theatre, and it was an instant success. The plot of the operetta revolves around Marietta, a French princess who flees to New Orleans to escape an arranged marriage. She meets and falls in love with Captain Richard Warrington, a member of the French navy, who is also in New Orleans on a secret mission. The operetta is set in the 18th century, and it features a mix of French and American cultures. The music is a blend of operatic arias, ballads, and lively dance numbers, with a strong emphasis on melody and catchy tunes. The score includes such memorable songs as "Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life," "Italian Street Song," and "Tramp! Tramp! Tramp!" The first act of the operetta takes place in New Orleans, where Marietta arrives disguised as a servant girl. She meets Warrington, who is immediately smitten with her. However, their romance is complicated by the fact that Warrington is engaged to another woman, and Marietta is still technically a princess. The act ends with a rousing dance number, "The Streets of New Orleans," which showcases the lively and colorful atmosphere of the city. The second act takes place on a ship bound for France, where Warrington and Marietta are both passengers. They are pursued by Marietta's uncle, the Duke of Montebello, who wants to force her to marry a prince. The act features several dramatic moments, including a storm at sea and a sword fight between Warrington and the Duke's henchman. The act ends with Marietta and Warrington declaring their love for each other in the beautiful duet, "Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life." The third act takes place in the palace of the Duke of Montebello, where Marietta is being held captive. Warrington and his fellow sailors come to her rescue, and there is a final confrontation with the Duke and his men. The act ends with a joyful celebration, as Marietta and Warrington are finally able to be together. 'Naughty Marietta' is a classic example of the American operetta, with its blend of romance, comedy, and catchy tunes. It was a huge success when it premiered in 1910, and it has remained popular ever since. The operetta has been adapted into several films and stage productions, and its music has been recorded by countless artists. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of Victor Herbert's music and Rida Johnson Young's charming libretto.

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