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Operetta vs. Opera: What's the Difference?

Operetta and Opera Definitions

Operetta

A theatrical production that has many of the musical elements of opera but is lighter and more popular in subject and style and contains spoken dialogue. Also called light opera.

Opera

A theatrical presentation in which a dramatic performance is set to music.

Operetta

(music) A lighter version of opera with a frivolous story and spoken dialogue. 18

Opera

The score of such a work.

Operetta

A short, light, musical drama.
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Opera

A theater designed primarily for operas.

Operetta

A short amusing opera

Opera

A plural of opus.

Opera

A creative work, especially a musical composition numbered to designate the order of a composer's works.

Opera

(music) A theatrical work, combining drama, music, song and sometimes dance.
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Opera

(music) The score for such a work.

Opera

A building designed for the performance of such works; an opera house.

Opera

A company dedicated to performing such works.

Opera

(by extension) Any showy, melodramatic or unrealistic production resembling an opera.

Opera

Plural of opus; a collection of work.

Opera

A drama, either tragic or comic, of which music forms an essential part; a drama wholly or mostly sung, consisting of recitative, arias, choruses, duets, trios, etc., with orchestral accompaniment, preludes, and interludes, together with appropriate costumes, scenery, and action; a lyric drama.

Opera

The score of a musical drama, either written or in print; a play set to music.

Opera

The house where operas are exhibited.

Opera

A drama set to music; consists of singing with orchestral accompaniment and an orchestral overture and interludes

Opera

Theater where opera is performed

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