Music is in the air

Operetta by Franz Lehár

With *The Merry Widow*, Franz Lehár created a global success that remains a regular feature on theatre programmes to this day. Set against the backdrop of the Ambassador’s Ball and Maxim’s, and blending the joy of the waltz with subtle irony, this operetta is a masterpiece of emotional artistry, elegance and timeless melodies.

All hearts lie at the feet of the wealthy widow Hannah Glawari, yet she has no intention of remarrying – but when words fail, she allows herself to be enchanted. This coming summer, the Lehár Festival Bad Ischl will bring this unique global success to the stage. For the first time in Austria, the production will be presented in the extended, fast-paced revue version by Erick Charell.
You’ve never experienced the touching story of the wealthy widow, her lost lover and the Parisian zest for life quite like this before – a triumphant production, a sensual and opulent dance operetta that leaves nothing to be desired.

Operetta by Carl Millöcker

With *Gasparone*, Carl Millöcker created one of his most successful operettas. Southern flavour, ingenious cases of mistaken identity and a wealth of enchanting melodies combine to form a light-hearted comedy that ranks amongst the most popular works in the operetta repertoire.

On an island off the coast of Sicily, the notorious bandit Gasparone is causing a stir. Although hardly anyone has ever seen him, his name dominates the lives of the islanders and turns them thoroughly upside down. Yet behind the supposed banditry lies far less criminality than vanity, greed and the desire for love and freedom. As the truth gradually comes to light, events come thick and fast.

After many years, this magnificent classic returns to the stage in Ischl. *Gasparone* is a turbulent play, a dazzling display of adventure, wit and musical exuberance.