Franz Lehár's The Merry Widow is one of the most celebrated operettas to grace the stage of the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Its most notable recent staging was a glittering, Art Nouveau production directed and choreographed by Broadway legend Susan Stroman, featuring a star-studded cast that included Renée Fleming and Kelli O'Hara.
The Merry Widow, is based on a French play from the mid-19th century. It stands as one of the most successful romantic operas ever written, blending elegant romance, screwball comedy, and biting social critique. The operetta’s enduring appeal lies in its infinitely hummable melodies and unforgettable dance tunes. The set transitions with the glorious can-can dancers is a feast to behold. The talented cast blends into the production’s significant strength—Stroman’s direction. It is challenging to distinguish between operetta and musicals. This joyful production is a musical in every sense, with the story conveyed through dialogue and enhanced by music.
The irresistible plot revolves around Hanna Glawari, portrayed by the effervescent Renee Fleming. After the sudden death of her wealthy husband, Hanna finds herself with a substantial inheritance. The Pontevedrian ambassador in Paris proposes to be her matchmaker, while her old boyfriend unexpectedly reappears. Faced with these challenges, Hanna must navigate the complexities of love and societal pressures. Hanna remains resolute in her pursuit of happiness and independence. Ultimately, Hanna emerges from the operetta with her fortune, her independence, and her heart intact, embodying the spirit of a “merry widow.”
