Gordon Grant age 12, of Ottawa, Ontario.

What is the difference between opera and operetta?

Both opera and operetta come from the Latin word opus, which means work. We take an opus to mean a work of art, usually a musical composition. Look up the plural of opus and you will find it is not opuses but opera, An opera is a collection of musical works. They are worked together to present a stage drama with songs orchestral accompaniment and sometimes snatches of recited dialogue.

This form of entertainment became very popular and different types of opera were written to appeal to different tastes and moods, Grand opera is the grandest of operas. The plot is serious and dramatic. There is no light conversation scattered through the music.

The word opera alone may be used to mean all kinds of musical drama. More exactly, it is of a lighter nature than grand opera. There may be conversation and we do not expect it to have a very serious plot.

Operetta means little or light opera. The story, if there is a story, is always light and usually humorous. There is always jolly conversation and merry quips between the songs and music. The music is happy and cheerful. Some of the most successful operettas are those that spoof the seriousness of grand opera. Yet they are enjoyed by the very people who also enjoy grand opera.