Goodall Opera

Howard Goodall covers important moments over the course of the existence of opera and the influence certain operas had on history in this episode of his series, Big Bangs. Opera originated in Italy 400 years ago. By the end of the 18th century, operas were making powerful political statements and responding to revolutions. The Marriage of Figaro by Mozart premiered in 1786 in Vienna and made a statement about the rich and powerful treating their employees like slaves. Beethoven’s only opera titled “Fidelio” premiered in 1805. It’s set in a prison and alludes to revolutionary Paris, with the theme of liberation and deliverance. The Belgian Revolution of 1830 was triggered by an event during an opera. Normally opera responded to political events and didn’t trigger them but that changed during the opening night of Daniel Auber's La Muette de Portici. After a patriotic duet during the opera, the audience flooded out of the opera house and into the streets to confront their Dutch oppressors. This revolution resulted in Belgium becoming their own nation.

The relationship opera has with politics makes me think of the current political climate we are in. I frequently hear people say “(Insert celebrity name here) should just stay out of politics.” I have never agreed with this idea for two reasons. One: just because someone is famous does not mean they give up their right to an opinion. Celebrities are humans, they don’t only exist to keep us entertained. And two: with a platform and an audience, people of influence have a great opportunity to advocate for the things they believe in. Watching this video and hearing about how art has commented on politics for hundreds of years gives me another reason to disagree with this “keep your mouth shut and dance, monkey” attitude. Artists speaking on important issues is not a new concept. With all the different platforms available in 2020, now more than ever, those with influence can speak to their audience directly and make an impact.