The beloved characters of Die Fledermaus are so comical because they are so plainly human. Over their dignified absurdity and all their fumbling foibles, Strauss’ glorious melodies sing us away from our own troubles. “Champagne can be malicious, even though delicious. We blame it for our troubles and yet, within its bubbles, we see the world  more clearly, and cherish things more dearly”.
A toast! A musical toast!