Glitter and Be Gay is an aria from the operetta Candide, sung by the character of Cunegonde. It was written by Leonard Bernstein and Richard Wilbur. The tune of the up-tempo section ("Ha ha, ha ha ha ha") is well-known from its prominence in the show's overture, as well as from its use for years as the theme music of Dick Cavett's talk show.
This aria poses considerable difficulties. Technically, it is among the most fiendishly challenging coloratura soprano arias. If sung as written throughout (alternative phrases are provided at several points in the score), there are three high E-flats (above high C), two staccato and one sustained; there are also numerous uses of high C and D-flat. Some of the florid passages are very intricate, calling for marksmanship of the highest order. Theatrically, it demands an elaborate comic staging (in which Cunegonde adorns herself with jewelry while singing and dancing around the stage), and has a satirical quality that is a challenge to perform.
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