“Die Operette Mit Schlag!”

Those who detect a missing link in the evolution between grandiose operas like Madame Butterfly and, say, Oklahoma!, might be able to fill in their musical education with a dalliance in operetta — a lighter, often more comedic version of opera that’s the modern musical’s natural predecessor. Tonight the Lone Star Lyric Theater presents a crash course in the genre with “Die Operette Mit Schlag!” which is part of its annual operetta festival performance series. The program, which strings together a series of witty, lighthearted standards, has a distinctly German theme, with works by Friml, Romberg, Offenbach, Lehár and Strauss II, performed by eight cast members and a pianist. Those who like both the playfulness of Broadway show tunes and the elaborate stylings of opera’s arias should be satisfied. 7:30 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m. today. Ovations Night Club, 2536 Times Boulevard. For information, call 212-567-1098 or visit www.lonestarlyric.org. $20 to $25.
June 26-28, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., June 29, 2 p.m., 2008