Opera as an art form has for ages been regarded as one of the most profound and intense art forms, expressing the fullness of human experience in its most grandiose manner. Still, opera’s influence extends well beyond the stage; it infiltrates the spirit of modern music, fashion, and even pop culture. From renowned composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and other greats, whose works have influenced countless soundtracks, to modern-day artists who borrow from operatic themes and styles, the influence of opera over the creative world is immense. Its signature intensity, emotional depth, and spectacular narratives still draw in and move audiences everywhere, demonstrating that opera retains a timeless resonance in today’s world.
In the world of modern music, opera’s legacy can be seen in unexpected spaces. Consider Queen’s legendary “Bohemian Rhapsody,” an anthem that mimics the structure of opera, or pop stars including Lady Gaga, whose performances often blend elements of operatic grandeur into her shows. Opera offers modern performers a set of devices enabling heightened emotion and majesty, allowing them to lift their artistry to a more dramatic plane. Even hip-hop—often regarded as opera’s antithesis—draws from opera's themes, unpacking universal themes of love, betrayal, and redemption. By merging operatic elements with today’s genres, performers create a sound that resonates with our deep-seated desire for depth and drama.
Beyond the musical sphere, opera’s influence also extends into fashion, film, and our approach to artistic expression. The here extravagant style and sumptuous attire of opera performances are echoed in runway shows, red-carpet fashion, and memorable cinematic costumes. Meanwhile, filmmakers integrate opera music to heighten their dramatic moments, while fashion designers take cues from operatic aesthetics to craft head-turning styles. Though it began centuries ago, it still stands as a potent force that shapes contemporary culture in both grand and subtle ways. In essence, opera stands as a lasting bedrock of artistic expression that moves and changes with each new era.