Zarzuela was born as a court genre in the 17th century, and became a mass spectacle in the mid-19th century, spreading throughout the whole of Spain. The success of zarzuela was in having sprung from Hispanic society, addressing an immense public of diverse social levels. It has made Hispanics laugh, cry, yearn and dream, with a musical language that arose from the very heart of the people. Zarzuela embraces Hispanic and European music, urban and rural, popular song and bel canto, traditional and urban dances. Zarzuela filled hundreds of theatres throughout Spain and America. This magnificent album is masterfully interpreted by Lisette Oropesa who carries this music in her heart. Her multi-faceted voice masters even the most demanding vocal passages with impressive ease.