Opera, which is the plural of "opus" or work, is still considered by many the most complete artistic form. Opera is a complete theatrical production including the plastic arts, sonorous arts, and performing arts; painting, scenery, and adaptive architecture; musical scores; and dramatic presentation of the story.

Opera, which is the plural of "opus" or work, is still considered by many the most complete artistic form. Opera is a complete theatrical production including the plastic arts, sonorous arts, and performing arts; painting, scenery, and adaptive architecture; musical scores; and dramatic presentation of the story. Operas are staged musical dramas in which the dialogue is primarily sung, accompanied by an ensemble of instruments or full orchestra, and performed for the audience with complete theatrical components. Operas can and usually do include solos for primary characters, arias, duets, ensembles, and choral works as well as ballets and other dance forms. The study of opera can easily contend with history, social mores and musical innovations, as well as production values, art production, and theatrical (special) effects. ~ Keith Johnson