Top 5 operas for beginners

Hello, opera fans!
I'm so glad that I could start this blog all about opera.   Since I am an opera critic-in-the-making, I will be posting some of my reviews.  This is a kid-friendly website, so I have a list below of what I think are the top 5 operas to watch if you are new to this.  My first opera was Le Nozze di Figaro, and that launched
an incredible passion for opera.   Have fun exploring this whole new world!

1.   Le Nozze di Figaro (Mozart) The Marriage of Figaro
This is a good opera for those who are new to opera. It has great music, a good amount of action, and a good story line.   I recommend the Glyndebourne Festival Opera's 1994 production starring Gerald Finley and Alison Hagley. I like this DVD because of the simple sets and costumes, and the wonderful acting.


2. Il Barbiere di Sivglia (Rossini) The Barber of Seville
This is great for people who don't like to sit through long arias.   It has the same characters as Marriage of Figaro, and it has wonderful music and a simple plot.   Being a comedy, it is very funny and lively, so lots of laughs guaranteed.


3. Carmen (Bizet)
This is just about the most flashy, dramatic opera ever - a gypsy dance, a knife fight, and more! Carmen's Habanera has been used in cartoons and TV shows, so you will probably recognize it.   This is for older kids (who are about 10 and up); some of the stuff is not appropriate for younger children.


4. Die Fledermaus (J. Strauss) The Bat
Die Fledermaus has GOT to be the funniest opera that I have ever seen!   It has GREAT music, a funny story, and all sorts of other mischief - including a big party, a flirtatious maid, and even - you said it - a bat.   Johann Strauss, known as the Waltz King, put the a wonderful waltz in the party scene - we also hear it in the overture.


5. La Traviata (Verdi) The Misguided Girl
Last, but not least, the great opera composer Giuseppe Verdi presents us with his best-loved opera... La Traviata!   This opera ranks high on my favorites list - number II, to be exact. The plot is simple - only three main characters to keep track of, and some of the best opera music you will ever hear. This opera has a very tragic ending, so it is good for those of  us who like a good cry.   Incredible music that only Verdi could write makes this opera a treasure.