Which is the best-known of the English "ballad operas"?

The best-known English "ballad opera" is John Gay’s "The Beggar’s Opera." This work, first performed in 1728, is significant because it combines spoken dialogue with songs that are set to popular tunes of the time, making it a pioneering example of the genre. The opera satirically addresses social issues and highlights the lives of criminals and the corrupting nature of society, which resonated strongly with audiences.

"The Beggar’s Opera" is distinguished not only for its entertainment value but also for its commentary on societal norms, and it established a format that would influence later musical theatre. It became immensely popular and is considered a major landmark in the development of English musical theatre, paving the way for future works.

In contrast, the other options mentioned do not fall under the category of ballad opera. "Street Scene" by Kurt Weill is a Broadway opera that combines elements of jazz and classical music but does not exemplify the ballad opera tradition. "Peter Grimes" by Benjamin Britten is an opera that delves into darker themes but is distinctly operatic in form and style rather than a ballad opera. Lastly, Thomas Tallis’s "Book of Common Prayer" is a collection of liturgical texts and