The Operatic Problem

A determined public‑spiritist uses his 1902 speech at a modest organ recital as a springboard for a bold proposal: making opera accessible to every citizen, not just the well‑heeled. Drawing on a wealth of European research, he sketches how a national system could thrive in England’s parks and town halls, while confronting the practical doubts of wartime austerity and moral scepticism.

The work balances lively historical anecdotes with clear, practical suggestions, acknowledging past critics from clergy to rival managers. Readers will discover a candid appeal for cultural uplift, a call for community dialogue, and a roadmap that invites suggestions rather than demanding a finished formula. This thoughtful exploration offers a glimpse into early‑twentieth‑century debates about art, society, and the possibility of a truly popular opera.