In 1868 Jacques Offenbach's opéra bouffe 'La Périchole' was premiered in Paris. The title character of this three act opera is based on Micaela Villegas, a beloved 18th century Peruvian entertainer and the famous mistress of Manuel de Amat y Juniet, Viceroy of Peru from 1761 to 1776.
The score of 'La Périchole' is most charming, rather than satirical style, with boleros, seguidillas and galops to provide the exotic backdrop.
One of the highlights is the seguedille 'Vous a-t-on dit souvent' which is sung by the poor street singers La Périchole and Piquillo in the first act.