The work in one sense is everything so many people dislike about the dreaded term "modern opera."

The truth may well depend on one's definition of modern opera.

Like most modern operas, the singers don't have fat lyric tunes.

"I'm still waiting for a modern opera," she said.

Her desire for a modern opera is evidently no empty threat.

But like too many modern operas, it fails to convey much through the vocal line.

Interestingly, each of these men has the looks modern opera wants.

The composition is typically considered to be the second work of modern opera, and the first such musical drama to survive to the present day.

I told them about my adventures in modern opera.

More unusual is that modern operas have provided the festival's high points.