Zarzuela is a Spanish word that is most commonly used to describe a type of theatrical performance that combines music, singing, and dancing. However, there are many synonyms for zarzuela that can be used to describe similar cultural performances from around the world. In Italy, for example, the popular opera buffa is a similar style of performance that mixes music, comedy, and drama. In France, the opera comique has similar elements, while Argentina has the tango-operita, which combines music and dance with a comedic storyline. Other synonyms for zarzuela include operetta, light opera, and musical comedy, all of which refer to performances that use music and song to tell a story.