The Csárdás Princess is a three-act operetta composed by Emmerich Kálmán, with a libretto by Leo Stein and Béla Jenbach, premiered in Vienna in 1915. It blends Viennese elegance with Hungarian folk rhythms, typical of early 20th-century operetta.

The story takes place between Budapest and Vienna, on the eve of World War I. Prince Edwin falls in love with Sylva Varescu, a cabaret singer known as “The Csárdás Princess.” Their romance is thwarted by social conventions and family expectations. Edwin is called back to Vienna to marry Countess Stasi, despite his promise to Sylva.

Hurt, Sylva leaves and pretends to be married to Count Boni, stirring Edwin's jealousy. A twist reveals that Edwin’s mother had a similar artistic past, paving the way for Sylva and Edwin to marry.

The operetta was a huge hit, with over 500 performances at its debut, and remains a beloved piece of the lyrical repertoire, celebrated for its humor, catchy melodies, and veiled critique of societal norms.