The people of the fictional principality of Pontevedro want to keep the fortune of Hanna Glavari, a rich young widow, within the country’s borders. Baron Mirko Zeta comes up with an ingenious strategy: the First Secretary of the embassy, Danilo, must marry her. Danilo is found at Maxim’s cabaret, but he refuses to propose to Anna, though he used to be in love with her. He does, however, promise to fob off her Parisian suitors.
The relationship between Camille and Baron Zeta’s wife, Valencienne, faces no obstacles, though. When Baron Zeta is about to discover them alone at a pavilion, Hanna saves the day by taking the place of the Baroness, which makes Danilo jealous. Hanna reveals she will lose her fortune if she remarries, and Danilo finally dares to propose to her – but Hanna still has another surprise in store.
You can read the full synopsis and other background information in the programme booklet.