Vanda (opera)

Vanda is an opera in five acts composed by Antonín Dvořák to a Czech libretto by Václav Beneš-Šumavský. It was Dvořák's fourth opera, composed between 1875 and 1879, though it wasn't premiered until 1901.

Vanda is a historical drama set in Poland in the eighth century. The plot revolves around Princess Vanda, who chooses to sacrifice herself to save her country from German invasion. The story draws heavily from Polish legends and patriotic themes, reflecting the nationalist sentiments prevalent in Bohemia (now the Czech Republic) during the 19th century.

Dvořák revised the opera several times after its completion, making significant cuts and changes. The premiere took place at the National Theatre in Prague on April 17, 1901, more than two decades after its completion. While Vanda contains elements of Dvořák's characteristic melodic style and dramatic orchestration, it has not achieved the same level of popularity or critical acclaim as some of his other operas, such as Rusalka or Dimitrij.