The Beggar's Opera; to Which is Prefixed the Musick to Each Song

by John Gay

"The Beggar's Opera; to Which is Prefixed the Musick to Each Song by John Gay" is a ballad opera written in 1728 with music arranged by Johann Christoph Pepusch. Set among London's thieves and criminals, this groundbreaking work satirizes Italian opera, corrupt politicians, and social inequality. Using familiar folk tunes instead of grand arias, it tells a story where ordinary criminals mirror the behavior of society's elite. The piece became a sensation, running for an unprecedented 62 consecutive performances and establishing itself as the eighteenth century's most popular play.