* Typically tells a story through music and singing, with limited spoken dialogue.
* Operatic music is usually classical and complex, with beautiful melodies and harmonies that may be difficult to appreciate if you're not familiar with classical music.
* Most operas are performed in a foreign language, most commonly Italian.
* The staging is often lavish and spectacular.
* Operas are typically longer than musicals, often running for several hours.
Musical theater:
* Operas are usually performed in a dedicated opera house, while musical theater is often performed in a theater or on Broadway.
* Features spoken dialogue along with music and singing, with a more balanced approach to the two.
* Musical theater music is often more popular and accessible, with catchy tunes and danceable rhythms.
* Performed in the language of the country in which it is produced, usually English.
* The staging is often more modern and minimalistic, with a focus on the characters and the story.
* Musicals are typically shorter than operas, often running for around two hours.