Palm Canyon Theatre welcomes a weekend of romance, intrigue, and glittering operatic style as Coachella Valley Classical Voices (CVCV) presents The Merry Widow, running May 22–24, 2026. Composed by Franz Lehár, this beloved operetta has captivated audiences for more than a century with its sweeping melodies, Viennese charm, and irresistible blend of comedy and romance.
Set within the opulent world of a Parisian embassy, the story follows Hanna Glawari (portrayed by Jenne Carey), a wealthy widow whose fortune is essential to the survival of her homeland. Determined diplomats scramble to ensure she marries within their ranks, but Hanna’s heart—and her future—grow complicated when her former love, Count Danilo (Luke Rainey), reenters her life. Their spirited reunion unfolds across ballroom waltzes, flirtations, jealousies, and comedic entanglements, all underscored by Lehár’s lush and melodic score.
The production showcases an impressive ensemble of Coachella Valley vocal talent, including Judi Russo as Valencienne, Charles Gallagher as Camille de Rosillon, Paul Crane as Baron Zeta, David Brooks as Njegus, Ric Durity as Pritschitch, Mark Wilensky‑Ziemann as Kromov, Andrew Taines as Bogdanovitch, Ty Carson as Cascada, Fiona Sarchett as Sylviane and Frou‑Frou, Denise Rooney as Lulu, Sanai Wright as Olga and Dodo, Stevie Gold as Gigi, Noah Wahlberg as Fifi, Thelma Irvine as Margot, and Eddy Moya as St. Brioche. Ensemble performers include Michele Davis, Darrin Dikes, Linda Mack Berven, and Matt Walker.
CVCV founding director Doug Nagel leads the production, with music direction by Linda Mack Berven and Chuck Peery. Scenic and lighting design are crafted by J.W. Layne, with projections by Nick Edwards and costumes by Derik Shopinski. Choreographer Keith Mottola makes his Palm Canyon Theatre debut, adding dynamic movement to the operetta’s grand ballroom atmosphere.
The Merry Widow runs May 22–24, 2026 at Palm Canyon Theatre, with performances at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $46 general admission and $20 for students with I.D., with group discounts available. For tickets or additional details, call the box office at 760‑323‑5123 or visit palmcanyontheatre.org. Palm Canyon Theatre is located at 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, and box office hours are Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.