If you want to dress up, go ahead! We'll never require you to purchase long gloves, tails, or spatterdashes and gaudy jewelry. But it's common for attendees to choose "sunday best" for their opera attire.
We also invite you to leave your pearls at home. It's more important to us that you that you attend the Opera. (Not what you wear when you attend.) If you want to come in casual clothing, we'll greet you with the same enthusiasm!
Running times vary for each production.
Visit the details page for each production to see the estimated duration you can expect.
Opera is often performed in the original language selected by the composer. Whenever possible, we will provide surtitles (projected above the stage) for operas in all languages (even English). But don't worry if we can't supply surtitles. We'll make sure it's easy to follow along. (Synopses are included in the programs and plots are never too involved.)
Doors generally open 30-45 minutes before the start of each performance. Try to arrive at least 20 minutes before curtain time if the event has open (unreserved) seating. If the production includes a pre-performance chat, the talk will begin in the theater 45 minutes before the show.
If you arrive late, please wait for an usher to guide you to your seat at a time that will be least disruptive to the performers and the audience. We'll try to get you in as quickly as possible.
We want everyone to fall in love with Opera! Every child is different though and some of our productions have adult content. Check details on each opera for sensitive content notifications.
Most operas are child-friendly, so we recommend parents consider run times for performances (also on the details page) before determining whether or not to bring youngsters. If your kid needs to take a break to avoid becoming a disturbance, we appreciate you sitting near an aisle or exit and temporarily stepping out with them. If you want help determining whether a child should accompany you, please feel free to contact us.
Photography & video is welcomed - outside the performance auditorium! We take copyrights very seriously, so please refrain from photography or recording (audio or video) during the performance.
We will request phones be turned off for all performances. Ushers will be on hand to help remind audience members who forget.
Our assorted venues each offer different accessibility services. But we intend to partner with locations that include accessible seating. If you have questions about the venue for specific productions, please contact us.
Several general rules that are beneficial to keep in mind:
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Refrain from disruptiveness. Distracting lights or movement should be minimized. (Turn off your phones and leave your laser pointer at home.)
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Refrain from talking or making noises during performances. Singers need to be able to focus their ears on pitch and rhythm cues from the pit orchestra. This is very difficult when there is noise in the audience. Even whispers can be distracting and detrimental to a singer's performance as well as the audience's enjoyment. Save conversations for the lobby.
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That said, applause is appropriate and appreciated when there are pauses in the music -- especially after a particularly virtuosic and beautiful solo aria. Singers onstage will not bow mid-opera if this occurs. They will remain in character until the applause dies down allowing the story to continue, but they appreciate your expressions of support and enthusiasm nonetheless. They will bow at the end of the opera when you can cheer even louder and longer if you like.
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Keep everyone safe. Leave any weaponry outside of the theater. You will be asked to check any backpacks, bags, or luggage large enough to carry weapons.
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