CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW)- Opera has a reputation of being unapproachable outside of its most devoted audiences. It’s regarded by some as a rich man’s art form, it’s hard to follow, difficult to relate to, and most of its famous stories are older than many classic books. Opera owes its origins to the 16th century – How does a modern audience relate to it?  As a result of these factors and more, many people who appreciate art simply brush opera aside. 

In this episode of The Forum, we take a look at what you’re missing in the world of opera.  The discussion is framed around three seminal works of opera – Rossini’s Barber of Seville, Mozart’s The Magic Flute, and Wagner’s Ring Cycle.   

In The Barber of Seville, a handsome, wily barber lends a hand to a lovesick aristocrat trying to free a beautiful soprano from the clutches of an evil, lustful, doctor. 

The Magic Flute details the journey of an Egyptian gentleman and a bird catcher to rescue a princess from the high priest of The Sun.  Three challenges, twist villains, and some incredible high notes ensue. 

And The Ring Cycle is the epic story of how the Gods in Valhalla were powerless to stop their own demise, putting their hope in a young hero with a magic sword.  You may be shocked by just how many stories you already know originate from The Ring Cycle. 

Master opera director Kyle Lang believes The Barber of Seville is a good entry point for people new to opera.  In advance of his production of the show at The Paramount in Charlottesville on July 17, Lang discusses the art form of opera, speaks about the challenges of creating it for a modern audience, and looks at changes in the 21st century.