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Episode 3: Opera Is Storytelling
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The word “opera” meaning “a work” is essentially a story told to music. Operatic stories come from many sources; history, mythology, fairy tales, folk stories, literature and drama. What all of these stories have in common is that something about their musical and/or dramatic qualities inspired a composer to set it down in music. Stories and storytelling seem to tap into a basic human need and all cultures have storytelling traditions. They teach us about life and death, love and hate, good and bad; in short, the human condition. Music is also found in every culture and when used in combination with a good story can clarify, define, elaborate on or even contradict the original story. It is this combination of music and story that makes opera and all forms of musical theater so powerful. In this episode we begin by looking at Hansel and Gretel by Engelbert Humperdinck [2:12 - 12:15]. In the opening scene we are introduced to Hansel and Gretel. This scene helps us get to know the kids before the story starts to unfold. One other way opera can bring a story to life is by being in a particular place. The setting transforms a stage to any place on earth. One of the grandest is Aida by Giuseppe Verdi [28:21 - 34:06]. The story takes place in ancient Egypt. Pay close attention to the spectacle of celebrating their victory performed by the Metropolitan Opera.
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