Gabriel Eisenstein should have surrendered to the local gaol, but couldn't resist an unexpected invitation to Prince Orlovsky's fabulous champagne party. His wife, Rosalinda, should be patiently awaiting the release of her poor husband, not entertaining Alfred, her ardent admirer. Adele should be attending to her duties as Rosalinda's maid, not flirting with Gabriel at the party. Prison Governor Frank should have made sure it was Gabriel he was arresting, then Alfred wouldn't have spent a night in gaol. Dr Falke, who has engineered the whole situation for the amusement of his friend the Prince, smugly awaits the outcome of his machinations.
The Scenes:
Act I The Eistenstein apartment. Café Trauber (front drop).
Act II The salon, Orlovsky Palace. The orangery (front drop).
Act III An ante-room in the city gaol