'La Verbena de la Paloma'

Teatro Lirico of DC’s production of one of the most beloved ‘zarzuelas.’

La Verbena de la Paloma (The Festivity of the Virgin of the Dove) is one of the most popular zarzuelas (Spanish operetta) of all times. Set in Madrid in the late 19th century, the story focuses on sweethearts Julian and Susana, whose love endures the amusing meddling of an old bachelor suitor.

As background to the plot, this zarzuela presents a parade of characters drawn from Madrid’s Belle Epoque. The dialogues are sharp and witty, and the catchy music includes some of the most celebrated zarzuela tunes, such as the famous habanera, ¿Dónde vas con mantón de Manila?