Lulu (Kuhlau opera)

Lulu is a comic opera in three acts by Friedrich Kuhlau. It was composed in 1824 and first performed on December 20, 1824, at the Royal Theatre in Copenhagen, Denmark. The libretto is by Carl Frederik Güntelberg.

The opera tells a story of mistaken identity, disguises, and romantic entanglements, typical of the Singspiel tradition to which it belongs. Lulu is generally considered a relatively minor work within Kuhlau's oeuvre, which is better known for its instrumental music. However, it contains charming melodies and exemplifies the lighthearted, popular entertainment common in early 19th-century opera. While not frequently performed today, Lulu offers insight into the operatic landscape of its time and contributes to the understanding of Kuhlau's compositional style beyond his better-known flute works.