Opera
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Email ThisOpera Basics
Below, you’ll find databases for researching operas, their various components, and related... read more»
News and Reviews of Opera
Opera is an international art, and using the Internet as your source for news and reviews puts the... read more»
Buying Opera Tickets
You might think going to the opera is an old-fashioned activity, but you certainly don’t have... read more»
Libretti and English Translations of Opera
Unless you’re fluent in the language of the opera’s libretto, it might be difficult to get more than the most basic idea of what’s happening onstage. Even if you’re in a house where subtitles appear on the chair in front of you, or a translation is provided in the program, most operagoers would rather immerse themselves in the performance than read along. Therefore, it pays to become familiar with the story before you go, and you can do this by finding libretti translations online. Spend a few moments perusing the text while you’re at home so you can truly experience the music and performances while you’re there.
Dulcinea's Insight
- There’s been much debate over whether providing subtitles in an opera house compromises the integrity of the experience. The New York Times reported on the outcry when the English National Opera decided to implement them.
- You’re here looking up libretti because so many are adamant that opera should not be translated and performed in English. Donald Pippin, the artistic director of the Pocket Opera in San Francisco, explains why he thinks it’s not such a bad thing. The Pocket Opera’s mission is to present opera in the clearest way possible.
Dulcinea's Picks
Buying Opera Recordings
Despite the high value placed on live opera performance, many opera buffs are almost as... read more»
Opera Communities and Blogs
Although opera tends to be focused on singing and listening, you can also share your love of it by... read more»
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