Opera refers to a dramatic art form, originating in Europe, in which the emotional content is conveyed to the audience as much through music, both vocal and instrumental, as it is through the lyrics. By contrast, in musical theatre an actor’s dramatic performance is primary and the music plays a lesser role. The drama in opera is presented using the primary elements of theatre such as scenery, costumes and acting. However, the words of the opera, or libretto, are sung rather than spoken. The singers are accompanied by a musical ensemble ranging from a small instrumental ensemble to a full symphonic orchestra.
Answer the following questions
- It is pointed out in the reading that opera —-.
a has developed under the influence of musical theatre
b is a drama sung with the accompaniment of an orchestra
c is not a high-budget production
d is often performed in Europe
e is the most complex of all the performing arts - We can understand from the reading that —-.
a people are captivated more by opera than musical theatre
b drama in opera is more important than the music
c orchestras in operas can vary considerably in size
d musical theatre relies above all on music
e there is argument over whether the music is important or the words in opera - It is stated in the reading that —-.
a acting and costumes are secondary to music in musical theatre
b many people find musical theatre more captivating than opera
c music in musical theatre is not so important as it is in opera
d an opera requires a huge orchestra as well as a large choir
e opera doesn’t have any properties in common with musical theatre
