What is Opera?

Opera is a grand form of musical theatre that originated in Italy in the late 16th century. It combines orchestral music, singing, and sometimes dance to tell a story. Typically performed in formal settings, the music is usually classical, and the stories often involve epic themes, high-stakes drama, and deep emotions.

Unlike musicals, opera is almost entirely sung and often features complex plots. The characters are larger-than-life, and the music is composed specifically for different voice types—like sopranos, tenors, baritones, and basses.

A great example is "La Traviata" by Giuseppe Verdi, which tells a tragic love story filled with exquisite arias and captivating recitatives (sung exposition)

. The lavish staging, intricate costumes, and rich orchestration create a stunning visual and auditory experience, perfect for those seeking a deep emotional journey. In fact, operas often last around two to four hours, allowing for detailed storytelling and character development.