Topic summary
Rock opera

A rock opera is a collection of rock music songs, especially a concept album, with lyrics that relate to a common story. The use of various character roles within the song lyrics is a common storytelling device. The success of rock opera has inspired similar works in other musical styles, such as rap opera.
Unlike classical opera, rock operas are typically not scripted for theatrical production, similar to a classical oratorio, though some have been adapted as rock musicals.