Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
rock-opera
noun
/ˈrɒk ˈɒpərə/

Definition
A rock-opera is a theatrical work that uses rock music as its primary musical style to tell a story, often with a narrative structure similar to traditional opera.

Examples
- “The Who’s ‘Tommy’ is one of the most famous rock-operas, depicting the life of a young boy who becomes a pinball champion despite his traumas.”
- “‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’ is a powerful rock-opera that explores themes of identity and self-acceptance through its narrative and music.”

Meaning
It combines elements of rock music and the operatic form, usually featuring sung dialogue and a cohesive storyline.

Synonyms
- musical
- rock musical
- operatic rock