Synopsis of Bitter Sweet
- Setting: The story spans from Vienna in 1890 to London in 1920.
- Plot Overview:
The operetta tells the story of Sari Barstow (née Schlick), a young Viennese woman who falls in love with a charming but penniless gentleman named valet, who is secretly her aunt’s lover and a notorious rake. Her aunt, a formidable woman, disapproves of the match and arranges for Sari to marry the wealthy and elderly Baron Von Tranisch to secure her future.Sari and her lover elope to London, where they attempt to make a new life together, facing hardships and the realities of poverty. They eventually find success and wealth through their shared artistic talents, with Sari becoming a renowned singer and her lover a successful composer.However, tragedy strikes when Sari’s lover dies suddenly. Decades later, in 1920, Sari, now a wealthy and famous widow, encounters the son of her former lover, who bears a striking resemblance to him and is also a composer. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring impact of past choices. - Genre: Musical operetta in three acts, known for its romantic and nostalgic score.
- Themes: The play delves into themes of love versus duty, social class, sacrifice, the passage of time, and the bittersweet memories of youthful passion.