The stunning show is described as one of the gems of Viennese operatta…

There’s still an exciting programme of shows coming to Dubai Opera in the latter half of this year, including ballet Swan Lake, award-winning musical Ghost and iconic Manchester house night Hacienda, but the diverse venue has already started to look to 2019.

And kicking off their show schedule, German operatta (that’s a lighter version of an opera), The Merry Widow will come to Dubai Opera for three unmissable performances from February 21 to 23 next year.

Performed by the Budapest Operetta, the historic romantic comedy is described as one of the gems of Viennesse operetta. It’s set to be a dramatic performance with soloists, chorus, ballet ensemble and a full orchestra.

Set in the vibrant city of Paris in the 20th century, the piece tells the story of Baron Mirko Zeta, who is desperately in search of a new husband for Hanna Glawari, a resplendently wealthy widow, to save her country from bankruptcy.

First created by Hungarian composer Franz Lehar in 1905, it’s widely regarded as one of his best works. The Merry Widow arrived in Paris four years later and has been performed across the globe more than 20,000 times.

In Dubai, it will be conducted by László Makláry, the Director of the Budapest Operetta and Musical Theatre.

The operetta combines humorous musical numbers, together with spoken dialogue, complimented by a show-stopping set reflective of the splendour and extravagance of Imperial Vienna.

It’s worth noting that the performance will be in German, but don’t worry if you’re German only extends to high school basics – there will be both Arabic and English subtitles.

Tickets for The Merry Widow  are now on sale, with 20 per cent off until June 24. Full price tickets will be priced from Dhs350 thereafter.

Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, February 21 to 23, early bird tickets from Dhs280. Tel: (04) 440 8888. More info on website

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