What is "opera"?
The Italian word “opera” actually means “work”. This Western traditional art form is a combination of music, drama, visual effects and occasionally, dance of which music has the most dominant role and the acting parts are taken by singers usually to the accompaniment of an orchestra in the orchestral pit led by the conductor. This musical, theatrical drama is also a feast for the ears as well as for the eyes as it is the amalgamation of singing, acting, costumes, scenery, props, lighting, special effects, orchestral playing, basically every aspect of performing arts. The instrumental playing and the singing are all presented without any artificial amplification and the performance is typically given in an opera house or theatre.
The very first opera appeared in 1600 and below are the 10 most performed operas around the world today:
- La Traviata (by Verdi, premiered in 1853)
- Carmen (by Bizet, premiered in 1875)
- Die Zauberflöte (by Mozart, premiered in 1791)
- La Bohème (by Puccini, premiered in 1896)
- Tosca (by Puccini, premiered in 1900)
- Il barbiere di Siviglia (by Rossini, premiered in 1816)
- Rigoletto (by Verdi, premiered in 1851)
- Le Nozze di Figaro (by Mozart, premiered in 1786)
- Don Giovanni (by Mozart, premiered in 1787)
- Madama Butterfly (by Puccini, premiered in 1904)
Message from Producer & Director
Professor Nancy Yuen Head of Vocal Studies, School of Music, HKAPA
I often wonder why western operas remain ever so popular over the last few centuries – is it because of the music, the sceneries, the sets, the heartwarming stories, the singers who want to share their passion or the charismatic conductors waving their arms in the orchestral pits, or maybe all of the above. Our young singers from the School of Music of The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts are indeed most fortunate to have their musical talents displayed to audiences around Hong Kong and beyond. We are also most privileged to be in a position to share with you how our talents are discovered and the journeys of learning and transformation through years of dedicated training and practices.
Message from Patron
Asia Insurance Company Limited is honoured to support the Opera Scenes and Audience Development Programme of The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. The programme offers unique opportunities for young Hong Kongers to learn more about opera and to develop a love and appreciation for music. Through educational outreach, tailor-made performances and support of young musical talent, the programme enhances our artistic community and nurtures its next generation. Asia Insurance Company Limited is delighted to support this essential mission.