Opera for the People: English-Language Opera and Women Managers in Late 19th- Century America.

"Opera for the People: English-Language Opera and Women Managers in Late 19th-Century America" by Katherine K. Preston explores the history of English-language opera in America from the postbellum years to the early 20th century. The book highlights the role of women performers and managers in staging well-known French, Italian, and German operas in vernacular English translations. Preston examines the social and professional obstacles faced by women at the time and showcases the vibrant performance culture of American opera that has been largely overlooked in American social and cultural history. The book provides a chronological account of the development of English-language opera and its eventual merging into American musical comedy. It also includes archival material such as illustrations, theatre programs, images of opera houses, and pages from librettos and prompt scores. The book offers valuable insights into the cultural, social, and gender disparities of 19th-century America and prompts readers to reflect on these issues. [Extracted from the article]