The Story of Opera

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Opera neophytes and seasoned music theater enthusiasts alike will appreciate this beautifully illustrated book. It features a well-written and comprehensive history of opera, enriched with color and black-and-white photos that capture the art form's visual elements. The author's deep knowledge of opera's origins and evolution will satisfy curious readers and inspire further exploration, supported by a suggested reading list at the end. The diverse illustrations include the design for the first "Queen of the Night," portraits of composers, and production photos, some over a century old. Notably, there are images of the Three Tenors and Caruso's self-caricatures. The author embraces both celebrated and notorious operas, showcasing classic productions alongside notable flops. The book's chronological structure spans from the debut of "Il Dramma per Musica" in the late 16th century to late-20th-century works, including a chapter on popular musical theater, revealing opera's rich 400-year history. An engaging foreword by Dame Kiri Te Kanawa adds to the experience, highlighting the remarkable stories and events within opera, and emphasizing its enduring excitement and drama.