Romberg–Desert Song, Eastern and Western Love, reader’s digest

It is Thursday, and we return to Sigmund Romberg’s The Desert Song. There are a number of minor songs in Act II, Scene 1; however, there is number called “Eastern and Western Love” in the program. It is not a song; it is the heading for a trio of songs sung at one location in the show. The songs represent differing views of love; the first view is found in the song “Let Love Go” and is sung by Ali Ben Ali, one of the tribal leaders. It is a reminder to the Red Shadow that he must stay a Berber, stay a Riff and let western women alone. The song is meant to be sung by a bass/baritone.

The second song immediately follows and is called “One Flower (Grows Alone) in Your Garden.” It is sung by the Red Shadow’s right hand man, Sid El Kar, a tenor.

Finally, the Red Shadow takes his turn and sings “One Alone” to one and all, letting them know that his love for Margot is real and undying.

Most of the time, one or two of these songs are sung separately (and we will share some of the better performances with you shortly); however, we did find one combined version in Readers Digest Treasury of Great Operettas. “Eastern and Western Love” is sung in order:

“Let Love Go”
“One Flower” 2:00
“Let Love Go” reprise with chorus 4:00
“One Alone” 4:40, add in chorus at 6:40