The lyrics in opera (called the “libretto”) are usually written in the native language of the composer. Many of the favorite grand operas are written in a foreign language – Italian, German, French and so on. Occasionally operas are translated into English. However, librettists use a highly developed
form of language which is designed to link sonically with the music. Thus, many operas are presented in their original language and translations in any other language lessen their impact. Nowadays, most operas are presented in their original language with “supertitles” which shows the lyrics translated into the viewers’ language on a screen, usually above the stage, so you can follow the plot. You’ve seen foreign movies with subtitles? Same thing! Opera Maine has done this since its very beginning.

A couple of suggestions, though. Try not to spend all your effort on reading the supertitles as all of the good stuff is happening on stage. Become familiar with the plot in advance, either in the program notes or in references elsewhere. Google any opera name and you’ll get as much info as you need for any opera.

You’ll be interested to know that many librettists were as famous as the composers they wrote for. In this country, for example, for a Rogers and Hammerstein musical, do you know who wrote the music and who wrote the lyrics?