Opereras

Opereras is the plural form of opera in several languages; in English, the standard plural is operas. The term denotes a form of long-scale musical theatre in which singing, acting, and orchestral music are integrated to tell a story. Opera productions typically combine a libretto with a full orchestral score and staged scenery.

Opera originated in late 16th-century Italy, drawing on Florentine experiments with drama and music. Monteverdi's Orfeo helped establish singing integrated with drama. The Baroque era saw composers such as Handel and Purcell, with opera seria and opera buffa as major formats. The Classical period elevated Mozart, while the Romantic era produced Verdi and Wagner, expanding scale, orchestration, and expressive range. In the 20th century, composers like Stravinsky and Britten continued to innovate in form, language, and staging.

Operas typically include a libretto set to music, with the score containing arias, recitatives, ensembles, and choruses, often arranged in acts. The orchestra provides accompaniment and color, and singers perform principal roles by voice type (soprano, mezzo-soprano/alto, tenor, baritone, bass). Works may be performed in the original language or translated, and productions rely on scenery, costumes, and lighting.

Subgenres include opera seria (serious drama) and opera buffa (comic opera); other forms include grand opera, singspiel (German dialogue), opéra comique, and verismo (realistic subjects). In modern periods, composers experiment with minimalism, electronics, and multimedia elements.

Prominent venues and repertoire shape the art form. Iconic houses include La Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Canonical operas include Verdi's La Traviata and Aida; Puccini's La Bohème and Tosca; Wagner's Der Ring des Nibelungen; Mozart's Don Giovanni. Opera remains a global, evolving art form with ongoing premieres and productions.