zoom_in Click to enlarge

The Fortune Teller

▲ ▼

description The Fortune Teller Overview

The Fortune Teller is Victor Herbert's 1898 Broadway operetta, written for soprano Alice Nielsen and remembered for the Gypsy Love Song. The story is set in Hungary and involves romantic intrigue, mistaken identity, and fortune-telling. It was a commercial success in its original run and has seen periodic revivals, reflecting the popularity of American operetta in the late 19th century.

help The Fortune Teller FAQ

Who wrote The Fortune Teller operetta?

Victor Herbert composed the music, and Harry B. Smith wrote the libretto. The three-act operetta premiered on Broadway in 1898 as a vehicle for soprano Alice Nielsen.

What is the plot of The Fortune Teller?

Set around Budapest, it follows Irma, an heiress in love with Hussar Captain Ladislas, while a count tries to marry her for her fortune. Irma disguises herself as her twin brother Fedor, and the fortune teller Musette adds the mistaken-identity comedy.

Which song is The Fortune Teller famous for?

Its best-known number is The Gypsy Love Song, also associated with the refrain Slumber On. The song became a major hit from the 1898 operetta and was recorded separately soon after.

What roles did Alice Nielsen play in the original production?

Alice Nielsen created multiple roles, including Irma, her twin Fedor, and the gypsy fortune teller Musette. That triple casting made the operetta a showcase for her voice and acting range in 1898.

swap_horiz

Looking for The Fortune Teller alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward