Operetta 'The Land of Smiles'

The Land of Smiles is a romantic operetta in three acts by Franz Lehàr from 1929. The story follows the Viennese countess Lisa, who marries a Chinese prince, Sou-Chong. Although their relationship begins promisingly in Vienna, problems arise when Lisa follows her lover to China. There, she clashes with the strict traditions and cultural differences that limit her freedom. Unlike many operettas, this story does not have a happy ending. The love between Lisa and Sou-Chong ultimately proves untenable due to the gap between their worlds. This tragic ending, combined with the emotional music, makes the work special. One of the most famous arias from the operetta is “Dein ist mein ganzes Herz”, which is still frequently performed. A new jewel in the crown of the Aarschot operetta company Aquila, which is now a guest at the Plazanterikken for the fourth time.