Ballad opera began in 18th century England as a form of popular entertainment featuring music, costumes, and stories depicting romance and betrayal performed by amateur companies. It differed from Greek theater in its use of contemporary music and inclusion of sex and rough aspects of life. The most famous ballad opera is The Beggar's Opera from 1728 about a highwayman who loves two women and is ultimately arrested. The purpose of ballad opera was to entertain audiences with musical stories that commented on everyday life and characters.

1. Ballad OperaAll you need to knowBy George Streather

2. What time period is it from? Ballad Opera started in the 18th century and continued to develop through out the 18th and 19th and 20th Century.

3. What country did they start in?Ballad Opera started in England and like all great English inventions it still survives to day. Usually performed by amateur company's, Ballad Opera is still a popular thing.

4. What could you expect from a ballad opera?There are a Varity of things expected from Ballard Opera. Firstly you can expect great, fantastic costumes of the age. Sweet but strong singing and a full Orchestra, if available. The performances sally come with a mix of moods from Love, to hate, to betrayal etc. It’s a real mixture that wont disappoint the Audience

5. How is it different to Greek Theatre – how had it developed? Ballad Opera was a different type of drama. Greek theatre was all about the gods and choir music where as Ballard Opera was a rougher side of life. Using the modern time (Of the day) music and bringing sex into it.

6. Are there any famous Ballad Opera’s?The most famous Ballad Opera is ‘The Beggars Opera’ which was written by John Grey in 1728. It’s about a Highway Robber who loves two women and is a bit of a playboy. He is then arrested and the ladies help him to escape.

7. What was the purpose of a ballad opera? The purpose of a Ballard Opera is to entertain the audience. It was a sort of EastEnders of the day. Putting a character into a situation and seeing what happens to them.It was for people who also liked music. Having songs written for the play, many people went to see them for the music and could possibly try ad play it on the Piano afterwards.