Der Zigeunerbaron

Text by Ignaz Schnitzer, adapted from a libretto by Jókai Mór (G,E)

2S,M,A,2T,3Bar,B; chorus
2.2.2.2-4.2.3.0-perc-harp-strings

Hungary, 18th century, during the reign of Maria Theresia (about 1750)

Sándor Barinkay arrives at the ruins of his father's estates to claim what is rightfully his. He proposes marriage to Arsena, daughter of the local pig-farmer Zsupán, but she – in love with the farm hand Ottokar – insists she will marry only a member of the nobility. Annoyed, he goes over to the gypsy encampment, where his welcome is warmer. Armed with their pledge of allegiance, he declares himself a gypsy baron, and 'marries' Sáffi, daughter of old Czipra, through whose local knowledge he discovers treasure concealed in the ruins. Count Homonay appears, recruiting for the wars, and tricks Zsupán and Ottokar into the forces. Barinkay too joins, and offers his treasure to the cause. Czipra also announces that Sáffi, far from being her own child, is actually of noble birth. In front of the Kärntnerthor in Vienna following the Austro-Hungarian victory, all celebrate the future: Barinkay is made a true baron, his money is returned to him, and Sáffi is confirmed as his wife.

Comic, Romantic