Opera in Cartoons

The first post I wrote talked about the prevalence of opera in movies due to its ability to communicate a wide range of emotions across language barriers. Opera is universal. Most people -- no matter their age, ethnicity or social standing -- have been exposed to some form of opera, even if they are not aware of it.

Lingering about the box office on opening night, striking up conversations with the patrons, it's always interesting to learn how different people became acquainted with opera. Many were introduced to it as children. Some were brought by their parents or participated in Florida Grand Opera's dress rehearsal program while in school. The best conversations, however, involve newcomers or skeptics who claim to have no connection to opera or classical music and watching them have a surprising recognition of a popular aria being performed in the theater.

They've never been to the opera. "Where have I heard that before?" they ask. The answer: their favorite cartoon, of course! For many of us, cartoons provided the first taste of this wonderful, transcendent art form.

Ready for a trip back in time? Here's our countdown of some of the best uses of opera in cartoons, as well as some honorable mentions for the use of classical music.