The Enchantress

A Musical Play

Book by Lyrics by Harry B. Smith and Fred De Gresac 

The Enchantress, an overlooked Victor Herbert musical, represents the opulent and romantic spirit of early 20th-century American musical theater.

The story of The Enchantress revolves around the mysterious Princess Stellina, a captivating woman whose allure and magical presence cause chaos and excitement among the noblemen around her. Set against a glamorous European backdrop, the plot weaves in elements of mistaken identity, romantic entanglements, and lighthearted intrigue, as characters fall under the spell of the enchanting princess.. Smith and De Gresac’s portrayal of Princess Stellina as a clever and resourceful character reflects a fascination with strong female leads in musical comedy, a trend that was emerging at the time.

While The Enchantress may not be widely remembered today, it represents a high point in the early development of American musical theater. The collaboration between Harry B. Smith, a prolific and influential lyricist and librettist, and Fred De Gresac, a celebrated playwright, brought a unique dynamism to the story. Together with Herbert’s enchanting score, they created a work that was emblematic of the era’s musical theater, filled with fantasy, romance, and sophistication. The Enchantress remains a fascinating example of early 20th-century musical comedy, setting the stage for future developments in American musical theater.

ISBN  978-1542596244 

$12.95

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