What is typically a characteristic of operatic performances?

Operatic performances are characterized by a combination of singing and acting. This dual aspect is fundamental to opera, as it integrates vocal artistry with theatrical elements to convey a story and evoke emotions. Singers perform with music, often using their voices to express a wide range of feelings, while simultaneously engaging in dramatic action on stage. This interplay between music and drama is what sets opera apart from other musical forms.

The combination of singing and acting creates a rich, immersive experience for the audience, as they are not only entertained by the music but also drawn into the narrative through the performers' actions and expressions. This characteristic is essential to the genre, demonstrating how operatic performances are a synthesis of various art forms.

In contrast, other options do not accurately represent the nature of opera. Strictly instrumental music pertains to forms such as concerts or symphonies, while a focus on electronic music generally relates more to contemporary genres outside of traditional operatic settings. Additionally, minimal use of sets and costumes would fundamentally alter the grandiosity and visual storytelling that operas are known for; elaborate productions typically enhance the operatic experience rather than detract from it.