Episode Details

In the late 16th century, a new art form emerged, borne out of a desire to re-engage with Greek dramas of the past. This art form was incredibly ambitious; it would involve music, words, and dance, all written to entertain court patrons and their subjects. Soon, this new idea had a name: Opera. Today, we'll do a brief overview of how opera developed all the way up until Mozart's time. Then, I'm going to take you through Acts I and II of Mozart's opera The Marriage of Figaro, my desert island piece. Enjoy!