What best describes opera?

Opera is best described as a storytelling method using song with little spoken dialogue. This definition captures the essence of opera as it combines music, singing, and dramatic narrative to tell a story. Most operas feature arias, recitatives, and choruses, which contribute to the overall emotional depth and convey the plot through musical expression. The emphasis on song rather than spoken dialogue is what distinguishes opera from other theatrical forms, allowing for a unique experience where music enhances the storytelling aspect.

In contrast, forms that use exclusively spoken dialogue do not incorporate the singing elements that define opera. Similarly, while modern styles of classical music performance can involve various interpretations of music, they do not necessarily categorize as opera. Lastly, a genre focused on dance overlooks the narrative component that is central to opera; it is not primarily about dance but rather about conveying stories through a combination of music and performance.