Aria's & Antics: Exploring Opera's Comic Side

What's so Funny?

Discover the theories of humor and explore why we laugh. Learn how composers use music to create comedy and bring unforgettable comic moments to the operatic stage.

Arias & Antics: Exploring Opera's Comic Side takes audiences on a journey through the art of laughter in music, beginning with the theory of humor and how composers use it to engage, captivate, and tell compelling stories. From the mischief of Commedia dell'arte and the wit of comic opera to the satirical brilliance of Gilbert & Sullivan and the lasting influence of opera on Broadway, discover why comedy has always had a starring role on the operatic stage.

Lecture presented by Dr. David Schildkret.
Presented in partnership with the Valley Friends of Arizona Opera.