Commentary
Opera is a very Western art form. Born in Italy in the 1500s, it would flourish in the royal courts and palatial theaters of Western Europe for the next few centuries. In the 20th century, some of the foremost opera companies in the world grew out of the United States, which continued European traditions with both foreign and domestic singers. Today, the love of classical singing has spread across the globe.
Unfortunately, in recent decades, opera has felt the need to “update” the classic operas to attract young audiences, who they don’t think will enjoy centuries-old settings and traditions. This is a tragically destructive trend, which is robbing confirmed as well as potential young opera fans of the chance to embrace these masterful compositions in their original forms. The main reason for these changes is the goal to draw audiences with something new and fresh, plus the desire of companies, producers, and directors to create something unique….