If you’re a lover of theatric arts then you’re probably a fan of opera. The art originated from Italy around the sixteenth century. The earliest operas were modest productions but soon became more lavish and took on more spectacular and grand staging.
Opera is a staged drama that is performed musically. It incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre such as acting, costumes, scenery and can sometimes even involve dance.
The soul of opera has overcome the obstruction of time and is still very much relevant in today’s societies. Opera and classical music as a whole are the foundation of what modern music is based off.
From Sydney to Milan to Hong Kong, Paris, and Oman, here are some of the best places to visit if you’re a fan of opera.
La Scala Opera House, Milan
The Grand Dame of opera, Milan’s Teatro alla Scala opened to much fanfare in August 1778. The first performance to be held in the theatre was ‘Europa riconosciuta’ – ‘Europe revealed’ – a story of love, violence, and politics set in Phoenicia, written by Antonio Salieri. Opening night was such a success that all the great opera composers wished to premiere their works in La Scala, from Rossini and Verdi to Bellini and Puccini.
Premieres were often daunting for writers, composers, and performers. Above the boxes, a gallery called the loggione was where less-wealthy fans could watch the performances. Usually crowded, the people were often critical and contributed greatly to the success or failure of the opera. Fortunately, they must have enjoyed Nabucco, Madam Butterfly, and Turandot which premiered here and are still popular to this day!
Sydney Opera House, Australia
Sydney Opera House in Australia is one of the most recognizable performing arts centers in the world. It was designed by Jørn Utzon of Denmark and inspired by nature. Work on the great structure began in 1959 and took 10,000 construction workers 14 years to complete. The opera house was unlike any other at the time, forward-thinking and innovative, even installing systems that cooled the structure by using water from the harbor. Cold water was circulated through pipes which powered the heating and air conditioning. The purpose was to ensure the interior was always at the optimal temperature so that instruments stayed in tune during performances.
Each year, Sydney Opera House hosts over 1500 performances which are attended by over a million people. If you’re planning a trip to Australia in the near future, you can take a guided tour of Sydney Opera House or book tickets to see one of its upcoming symphonic or operatic performances.
Royal Albert Hall, London
The Royal Albert Hall of Arts and Sciences was opened in London in 1871. It was originally used for trade exhibitions showcasing everything from medical wares to electric lights and food and drink. It also doubled as a concert hall where the Royal Choral Society performed, and on the 23rd June 1873 in the presence of the Shah of Persia, the first electric lighting was used to highlight the stage.
It’s hard to believe that even back in March 1891, a sci-fi convention was held here, and the Royal Albert Hall was transformed to resemble a huge galactic city! Today, it’s the home of the BBC Proms and plays host to all genres of music concerts and charity events, attracting visitors from all over the world. You can book tickets for a concert or take a guided tour of the Royal Albert Hall and glimpse the stage where everyone from Einstein to Churchill and Coldplay to Beyoncé have stood throughout its history.
Royal Opera House Muscat, Oman
The Royal Opera House in Muscat, Oman rivals some of the world’s most iconic opera venues. It opened in 2011 with an impressive first season, hosting performances by Andrea Bocelli, Plácido Domingo and Renée Fleming. The interior of the opera house is that of a grand old-world theatre, yet the exterior gleams beneath the sunlight – a modern whitewashed structure surrounded by sculpted gardens and floral displays.
As the most prominent arts venue in the Middle East, it hosts a variety of operatic concerts, ballet recitals, Arabic and world music performances. It’s not just about the concerts either, this state-of-the-art venue is also home to a cultural marketplace with retail outlets and fine dining restaurants!
Arena di Verona, Verona
For some of us, the magic of opera can only be experienced fully outdoors, and there’s no better place in the world to see an alfresco performance than Arena di Verona in northern Italy. Dating back to the 1st century, the structure was first used to host ‘ludi’ – ancient public shows and games which Romans would venture to from miles around. Today, you can see a different type of show throughout the summer months, this well-preserved, open-air amphitheater showcases some of the finest set designs and operatic performances in the world.
As the Verona amphitheater illuminates on a warm summer night, the audience silent awaiting the first note, the set becomes clearer and pyramids and obelisks appear on stage for Aida or ancient Babylon is brought to life for Nabucco. As you immerse yourself in lilting melodies and complex storylines, you wonder what the city was like in Roman times and lose yourself in this enchanting experience.
Xiqu Centre, Hong Kong
One of the newest performance centers in the world, Xiqu Centre was inspired by the shape of Chinese lanterns. Nestled in West Kowloon, Hong Kong, this structural masterpiece blends traditional and modern to create an iconic music and arts center in the city.
The eight-story building houses a Grand Theatre, professional studios and a seminar hall for functions and exhibitions. In addition to operatic and musical performances they hold art appreciation talks, experimental Chinese opera shows and even host a Tea House Theatre Experience. These 90-minute performances recreate the atmosphere of 20th century Hong Kong tea houses, and as an added bonus, you’re even served traditional tea and dim sum mid-show!
Palais Garnier, Paris
Palais Garnier or Opéra Garnier Paris was built between 1861 to 1865 on the instruction of Emperor Napoleon III. The opulent décor was representative of his eclectic style and quickly became an iconic symbol of Parisian culture. The palace is recognizable for fans of opera as it was used as the setting for Gaston Leroux’s 1910 novel ‘Phantom of the Opera’. As you enter in the present day, you’ll see exquisite statues, grand sweeping staircases, frescoes and dazzling chandeliers which wouldn’t look out of place in Versailles. The auditorium is equally as impressive, designed in a traditional Italian horseshoe with the ability to seat almost 2,000 people.
Most operatic performances are now hosted at Opéra Bastille, 20 minutes’ drive away, however, ballet recitals are still held in Palais Garnier each year. Even with this in mind, it would still be remiss not to mention this iconic building as its rich heritage, national treasures and grand design renders it too important to omit.
Overall, opera makes us see, feel, and hear the world differently. Opera does not shy away from heavy themes when it comes to some of its productions.
It allows us to take a step back from modern music and appreciate where theatrical arts came from. It helps us to embrace and appreciate the origins of the performing arts.
We realised we really wanted to catch a glimpse of what went on behind the scenes of the companies we looked up to. And we thought other people would want to know too. Amelita Pennie Lanza
Having read this I believed it was very informative. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to put this short article together. I once again find myself personally spending way too much time both reading and commenting. But so what, it was still worthwhile! Phaedra Ashbey Magdau
Great blog here! Also your web site loads up fast! What web host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link to your host? I wish my site loaded up as quickly as yours lol| Karole Corbett Borman
hi!,I really like your writing very much! percentage we be in contact more approximately your post on AOL? I require an expert on this space to resolve my problem. May be that is you! Taking a look ahead to see you. Molli Vassili Walkling
I am sure this post has touched all the internet visitors, its really really pleasant paragraph on building up new blog.| Sapphira Lukas Romilly
Thousands of you have already taken advantage of this service where we bundle all these activities and give you a discount to perform these services. Of course we do these things year round, but in the spring when most clients need it we do it for a reduced price. Blondy Vick Harmonie
This text is priceless. Where can I find out more? Wilmette Iver Rogers
This piece of writing is truly a pleasant one it assists new web visitors, who are wishing in favor of blogging. Jacklyn Robin Coriss
Howdy! This post could not be written any better! Reading this post reminds me of my previous room mate! He always kept talking about this. I will forward this post to him. Pretty sure he will have a good read. Thank you for sharing! Glyn Isaak Kathryne
Sed reprehenderit quam, non felis, erat cum a, gravida lorem a. Ultricies in pellentesque ipsum arcu ipsum ridiculus velit magna, ut a elit est. Ultricies metus arcu sed massa. Massa suspendisse lorem turpis ac. Adriaens Sinclair Fiann
Cpp and oas at 69 or 70. Spending down some business dividends and stock dividends to try to get the best out of CPP at later date. Have the original book but would like the update. Cheers Melanie Reginald Ryder
Hi mates, how is everything, and what you would like to say regarding this article, in my view its really awesome designed for me. Tarrah Jakob Napoleon Tamera Curtis Ramiah
Pretty! This was an extremely wonderful article. Thanks for supplying this info. Karin Lewiss Hammer
I have been absent for a while, but now I remember why I used to love this site. Thanks , I will try and check back more frequently. How frequently you update your web site? Virginie Sherman Curt
Hello There. I found your weblog the use of msn. That is an extremely neatly written article. Shelagh Geoff Carhart
An intriguing discussion is worth comment. I assume that you ought to compose more on this subject, it might not be a frowned on subject yet usually individuals are insufficient to speak on such subjects. To the next. Cheers Kimmi Dewain Lilith
Awesome write-up. I am a normal visitor of your site and appreciate you taking the time to maintain the excellent site. I will be a frequent visitor for a really long time. Dee Dee Abba Brena
I wish to point out my passion for your generosity giving support to people who require help with your situation. Your special commitment to passing the solution around appears to be pretty significant and have usually made people like me to get to their aims. The important facts signifies a whole lot a person like me and a whole lot more to my fellow workers. Many thanks; from everyone of us. Alverta Nate Ahmar
Ayla, I applaud you for sharing this story as I am sure that it will help many others. I hold you in high regard and respect your opinion so that makes this article all the more impressive. Sending my favorite answer for anxiety to you and that is Reiki Healing Energy, my friend. So proud to know you ! Galina Yvor Bonnee
Waaah baru tau beda UKM dan UMKM, makasih sharingnya, Kak ^_^ Shawnee Erl Pappano
Can I simply say what a comfort to find an individual who really knows what they are discussing on the web. You certainly realize how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More people have to check this out and understand this side of the story. I was surprised that you are not more popular given that you definitely have the gift. Devina Rayner Harewood
You made a few good points there. I did a search on the subject matter and found a good number of people will agree with your blog. Isobel Wallis Salena
You made some decent points there. I looked on the internet for more info about the issue and found most people will go along with your views on this website. Avis Nilson Horter
I am very close to turning 69 and I plan to take my CPP at 70. OAS I might take a little sooner but I hope to hold out until 70. Both are sure things and indexed to inflation. I think it is worth waiting. Kakalina Creighton Odericus
What are some really good hip hop songs to download? Lynnett Goran Leor
I have paid for this razor and find it a bad choose. I want to finish with this firm but cant see any way of contacting them to stop sending me more useless razors Vevay Lancelot Vivienne
Wow, what a video it is! Really fastidious quality video, the lesson given in this video is really informative. Tiffani Clarance Renault
Lol, what ? The source is open , use it to create a better app or write a security post of existing vulnerabilities and get your own credits. Mufinella Seumas McDade
I love the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great blog posts.
Very well written post. It will be valuable to anyone who usess it, as well as me. Keep up the good work – for sure i will check out more posts.
But wanna remark on few general things, The website style is perfect, the subject matter is rattling wonderful : D.
I like this post, enjoyed this one thanks for putting up.
Very interesting info !Perfect just what I was searching for! “The right to be heard does not autmatically include the right to be taken seriously.” by Hubert Humphrey.
Thank you for any other informative site. The place else may just I am getting that type of info written in such a perfect way? I have a challenge that I’m just now working on, and I have been on the look out for such info.
I am extremely inspired together with your writing talents as well as with the structure on your blog. Is that this a paid subject matter or did you customize it yourself? Either way stay up the excellent high quality writing, it’s rare to see a great weblog like this one today..
I truly appreciate this post. I’ve been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You have made my day! Thank you again!
Hi there! Do you know if they make any plugins to assist with SEO? I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m not seeing very good gains. If you know of any please share. Many thanks!
Some really marvellous work on behalf of the owner of this internet site, dead outstanding written content.
Perfect work you have done, this web site is really cool with great information.
This is a topic close to my heart cheers, where are your contact details though?
p8z2wp
ucssf7
morxkj
x2h0t8
buy cialis online using paypal 1B shows a representative photograph of the cholangiocarcinoma xenograft growth with PBS control and tamoxifen treatment after 4 weeks
9o3c2x
khdk3d