Syngespillet i nytt lys - Opera i Norge fra 1790 til 1825

Abstract

This article discusses the term syngespill (light opera), which in Norwegian is closely linked to the German Singspiel. However, this is an understanding that is not adequate when the term is used to describe the musico-dramatic repertoire in Norway from 1790 to 1825. Instead, the article argues that the Danish use of the term, which encompasses comic opera in general, as well as a particular Danish version of the genre, is more suitable, as it gives a better understanding of the repertoire’s diversity. Moreover, the article shows how the genre has been attributed, perhaps undeservedly, a minor role in Norwegian musical history, despite it being the most popular musico-dramatic genre in Norway at the time. This can be linked to the fact that it was never a distinct Norwegian genre, and therefore could not have been used in the nation-building that was such an important part of Norwegian historical writing after 1814.