description The Merry Widow (Ronald Hynd) Overview
The Merry Widow is a ballet choreographed by Ronald Hynd, based on Franz Lehar's 1905 operetta. Created for the Australian Ballet in 1975, it follows the wealthy widow Hanna Glawari through romantic intrigue in Belle Epoque Paris.
help The Merry Widow (Ronald Hynd) FAQ
When and where did Ronald Hynd's The Merry Widow premiere?
It premiered on 13 November 1975 at the Palais Theatre in Melbourne, created for The Australian Ballet. Ronald Hynd choreographed it, while Robert Helpmann devised the scenario and Desmond Heeley designed the sets and costumes. [The Australian Ballet history](https://australianballet.com.au/history)
What is the plot of The Merry Widow ballet?
Set in Paris in 1905, it follows the wealthy widow Hanna Glawari and Count Danilo as old feelings survive a diplomatic attempt to keep her fortune in Pontevedro. The story also includes Valencienne and Camille, plus the comic diplomat Njegus. [The Australian Ballet synopsis](https://australianballet.com.au/synopsis/the-merry-widow-synopsis)
What music is used in Ronald Hynd's The Merry Widow?
The score comes from Franz Lehár's 1905 operetta Die lustige Witwe, arranged and orchestrated for ballet by John Lanchbery and Alan Abbott. Familiar numbers include the Merry Widow Waltz and Vilja's Song. [The Australian Ballet](https://australianballet.com.au/synopsis/the-merry-widow-synopsis)
Is Ronald Hynd's The Merry Widow the same as Veronica Paeper's ballet?
No. Hynd's version was made for The Australian Ballet in 1975, while Veronica Paeper created a separate version for CAPAB in 1988. Both draw on Lehár's operetta, so the choreographer and production credits matter when searching for a recording or performance. [The Merry Widow ballet overview](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Merry_Widow_%28ballet%29)
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