Heartbreaking tales of these fleeting stars
Premiering in 1904, Jenůfa is a powerful opera by Janáček that explores themes of guilt and societal pressure. A child is born in secret, leading to tragic consequences in a Czech village.
Premiering in 1901, this beloved Czech opera is based on a water sprite from Slavic mythology. Featuring the famous aria 'Song to the Moon,' it tells the dark fairy tale of Rusalka, who falls in love with a human prince and makes a deal with an evil witch, exchanging her beautiful voice for legs to join his world.
Premiered in 1853, 'La traviata' is a tragic love story that follows Violetta Valéry, a Parisian courtesan who sacrifices her happiness for her lover, Alfredo Germont. It features the famous aria 'Libiamo ne' lieti calici' and remains one of the most frequently performed operas today.
First performed in 1866, this Czech opera is a lively comic tale that explores themes of love and marriage, featuring memorable melodies and a joyful score.
Opera is one of the most captivating and enduring art forms, combining powerful music, rich storytelling, and dazzling performances. Originating in Italy during the late 16th century, it's a blend of music, drama, and visual art, often telling epic tales of love, tragedy, and heroism. Today, opera remains popular in cultural centers worldwide, with Italy, Germany, Austria, and the US home to renowned opera houses and festivals.
From the tragic love stories of 'La Bohème' and 'Madama Butterfly' to the fiery passion of 'Carmen,' click on to discover the most popular operas of all time.
First performed in 1905, this operetta is known for its charming melodies and comedic plot about love and wealth. It follows the wealthy widow Hanna Glawari and her romantic entanglements, featuring iconic songs like the 'Vilja Song.'
From 1805, 'Fidelio' tells the story of a woman who disguises herself as a man to rescue her husband from prison. Its famous overture and the aria 'Abscheulicher! Wo eilst du hin?' highlight the emotional depth and intensity of the characters' plights.
This Czech-language opera premiered in 1921 and delves into themes of love and repression in a provincial Russian town. 'Kát'a Kabanová' vividly portrays the struggles of its titular character against societal expectations.
'The Rake's Progress' is an English-language opera from 1951 based on the paintings of William Hogarth. It follows the story of a young man's moral decline, blending neoclassical and modernist elements.
This opera from 1762 retells the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, emphasizing emotional expression and the power of love. It features the famous aria 'Che farò senza Euridice.'
First performed in 1877, this opera tells the biblical tale of Samson and Delilah, featuring the famous aria 'Mon cœur s'ouvre à ta voix.' Notable performers of the leading roles include José Carreras and Maria Callas.
'Peter Grimes' is a modern opera from 1945 that explores the life of a troubled fisherman facing prejudice in his village. Against the backdrop of the English coast, it delves into themes of isolation and societal judgment.
This German-language opera debuted in 1843 and tells the story of the ghostly Dutchman and his quest for redemption through love. It explores themes of fate and longing.
'Lohengrin' debuted in 1850. It features the famous 'Bridal Chorus' and tells the story of the knight Lohengrin and his mysterious origins. Composed by Richard Wagner, this opera intertwines themes of love, duty, and the supernatural.
'The Tales of Hoffmann' is a French opera that premiered in 1881. It blends fantasy and romance, following the poet Hoffmann and his three loves.
Premiered in 1876, 'La Gioconda' is renowned for its dramatic story of love, jealousy, and sacrifice. Set in 17th-century Venice, it's also known for the famous 'Dance of the Hours.'
Sources: (The Guardian) (English National Opera) (Classical Music)
First performed in 1890, this one-act opera is set in a Sicilian village, telling a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and revenge. Known for its famous intermezzo, it remains a favorite in the operatic repertoire.
Sung in German, this operetta premiered in 1874 and is renowned for its dramatic story of love, jealousy, and sacrifice. Set in 17th-century Venice, 'Die Fledermaus' features catchy melodies, including the delightful 'Champagne Song.'
'A Midsummer Night's Dream' premiered in 1960 and is based on William Shakespeare's whimsical play of the same name. Featuring enchanting, atmospheric music, it includes the countertenor role of Oberon.
This comedic opera from 1816 features the clever barber Figaro as he helps Count Almaviva woo Rosina. Famous for the aria 'Largo al factotum,' it's often regarded as a prequel to Mozart's 'The Marriage of Figaro.'
First performed in 1904, 'Madame Butterfly' tells the heart-wrenching story of a young Japanese woman abandoned by her American husband. Featuring the poignant aria 'Un bel dì vedremo,' the opera explores her hopes for his return amid the harsh realities of betrayal and cultural clash.
'Rigoletto' premiered in 1851 and tells the tragic story of the hunchbacked court jester Rigoletto and his daughter Gilda, who falls victim to the Duke of Mantua's seduction. Famous for the aria 'La donna è mobile,' the opera explores themes of love, revenge, and a father's curse.
Blending comedy and tragedy, this 1787 opera tells the story of the notorious seducer Don Giovanni and his eventual downfall. With its compelling characters and Mozart's brilliant score, including the famous 'Champagne Aria,' it explores themes of seduction and morality.
'Tosca' is a dramatic opera celebrated for its intense emotion and features the famous aria 'E lucevan le stelle.' Premiered in 1900, it unfolds against the backdrop of political turmoil in Rome, following the tumultuous love affair between the singer Floria Tosca and the artist Mario Cavaradossi.
This 1786 opera follows the clever servant Figaro as he navigates love and intrigue in a comedic plot filled with mistaken identities. One of its most famous pieces is the 'Non più andrai,' a stirring farewell sung by Figaro.
'La Bohème' is a touching story about young artists navigating love and hardship in Paris. It premiered in 1896 and includes beloved arias such as 'Che gelida manina' and the emotional duet 'O soave fanciulla.' Its portrayal of friendship and loss continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
'The Magic Flute' combines fairy tale elements with Enlightenment philosophy, featuring the famous Queen of the Night aria, 'Der Hölle Rache.' Premiering in 1791, this opera showcases Mozart's genius in blending drama and fantasy.
First performed in 1875, 'Carmen' is set in Seville, Spain, and tells the story of the fiery Carmen and her tragic love affair with Don José. Renowned for its vibrant music, it features iconic arias like the 'Habanera' and the 'Toreador Song.' Sung in French, this opera explores themes of passion, jealousy, and fate.
'Aida,' which debuted in 1871, tells the story of a love triangle set against the backdrop of Ancient Egypt. This grand opera explores themes of loyalty and sacrifice, highlighted by the famous 'Triumphal March,' which celebrates victory and heroism.
'Eugene Onegin' is a Russian opera that premiered in 1879. It explores themes of love, regret, and societal expectations through the tragic story of a disillusioned nobleman and his unrequited love.
Featuring a mythological musician as its hero, this opera from 1607 is considered the first great opera. It tells the story of Orpheus, whose wife Euridice dies from a snake bite. Heartbroken, Orpheus uses his music to attempt to rescue her from the Underworld.
30 of the most popular operas of all time
Today is World Opera Day
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Opera is one of the most captivating and enduring art forms, combining powerful music, rich storytelling, and dazzling performances. Originating in Italy during the late 16th century, it's a blend of music, drama, and visual art, often telling epic tales of love, tragedy, and heroism. Today, opera remains popular in cultural centers worldwide, with Italy, Germany, Austria, and the US home to renowned opera houses and festivals.
From the tragic love stories of 'La Bohème' and 'Madame Butterfly' to the fiery passion of 'Carmen,' click on to discover the most popular operas of all time.