Maytime: A Musical Play: Complete Book and Lyrics (Historical Libretto Series)

"Maytime" was a mega hit of its time. It now stands as a hallmark of early American musical theatre. Its success during the World War I era reflects the public's yearning for escapist entertainment and timeless love stories amid uncertainty.

The plot of "Maytime" spans generations, following the love story of Ottilie Van Zandt and Richard Wayne, who are kept apart by circumstance and social conventions. By shifting the story through different decades, librettist Rida Johnson Young captures both the timelessness and transience of love, allowing audiences to experience the depth of romantic sacrifice.

"Maytime" represents the kind of romantic, nostalgic storytelling that was popular in American theatre during the early 20th century, bridging European operetta with American musical sensibilities. By combining Young's lyrics with Sigmund Romberg's melodies, "Maytime" exemplifies the cultural and artistic trends of its time while leaving a lasting impact on the genre of romantic musical drama.