A Singspiel is a form of German musical theater that combines spoken dialogue with songs. It originated in the 18th century and is characterized by its light-hearted and entertaining nature. The music in a Singspiel often includes popular melodies and is typically more accessible than that found in traditional operas. One of the most famous examples of a Singspiel is Mozart's "Die Entführung aus dem Serail." This genre played a significant role in the development of German opera and influenced later musical forms, including operetta and musical theater. Singspiels often feature comedic elements and relatable characters, making them appealing to a wide audience.