Baroness Lili

"Baroness Lili" ("Lili bárónő") is an operetta by Jenő Huszka in three acts. It was premiered in Budapest on March 7, 1919 in City Theatre (Népszínház). The libretto was by Ferenc Martos.

Plot

Act I

Baron Malomszegi bought an old castle from Count Illeshazy. Upon arrival, he and his daughter Lili meet the count for the first time and believe him to be a Chamberlain. The latter does not reveal who he really is because of the opportunity of being close to the pretty young girl as a member of the castle's staff.

Act II

Illeshazy falls in love with Lili and enteres into a closer relationship to her than a member of the staff normally would. However, neither Fredi, Lili's fiancé, nor Clarisse, Illeshazy's old love, like this situation. Clarisse takes revenge on Illeshazy and tells Lili that he is not a chamberlain, but the former owner of the castle. Thus, Illeshazy has to leave the castle and Lili decides to marry Fredi.

Act III

Some months later, there is a horse race. The favourite is Tunder, Lili's horse. However, her rider, Baron Sanci, arrives late. Fortunately, Illeshazy can step in to ride in his place and wins the race. He meets Lili again and convinces her that he truly loves her

ongs

The best known songs are
* "Cigaretta-keringő" (Cigarette Waltz)
* "Egy férfi képe" (The face of a man), a love song