Jane Rosenberg's delightful retellings for children of the greatest operas?whether the tales are read as introductions to an opera or to relive a production already seen, art and text combine to give a clear understanding of plot, scene, and character. Young children will enjoy reading the stories?or having them read?both as lovely fairy tales and to help them share in the magic of a real dramatic performance. Here are the gaiety of The Barber of Seville and the lavish spectacle of Aida. Sets, costumes, and lighting are re-created to give the true flavor of authentic productions and to approximate, as fully as possible, the experience of attending the opera oneself. 44 illustrations, 29 in color. "Engaging. . . . The text and illustrations exude the glamour, passion, and lyricism of opera."?Publishers Weekly