JOHANN STRAUSS II (1825-1899): Prinz Methusalem.

Description: The latest obscure Strauss operetta from this source was originally planned for Paris (hence its nods in several places to Offenbach) but which finally was premiered in Vienna at the very beginning of 1877. Thus, you'll find the usual Viennese flavors as well as some Italian opera buffa spice in this stew of broad satire both of greedy and dimwitted aristocrats and of vain and fame-thirsty artists. The libretto was universally excoriated; for this revival, a re-do was commissioned from Berlin cabaret artist and writer Peter Ensikat. Four separate articles in the booklet, along with full synopsis. 2 CDs. No libretto. Jessica Glatte (soprano), Jana Frey (mezzo), Frank Ernst (tenor), Gerd Wiemer (baritone), Chorus and Orchestra of the Dresden State Operetta; Ernst Theis.