operetta

Zarzuela is a Spanish musical genre that combines elements of opera, operetta, and theatrical musical. It originated in the 17th century and gained popularity as a form of entertainment for a wide audience, presenting both dramatic and comedic stories.

Zarzuela is characterized by a mix of spoken dialogue and sung passages, often featuring dance and elaborate staging. The music of zarzuela spans a wide range of styles, from traditional folk songs to influences from Italian and French opera.

Composers such as Francisco Asenjo Barbieri, Tomás Bretón, and Amadeo Vives are known for creating zarzuelas that have become classics of the genre. Zarzuela plays an important role in Spanish musical culture, serving both as entertainment and as a medium expressing Spanish national identity.