New to Opera?
What is Opera like?
Opera has something for everyone, if you already enjoy any other art form, film, theatre, dance or visual arts, you are sure to find something you will like in Opera. Opera is as diverse as rock, jazz or world music and listening to a variety of operas will give you a sense of just how much is out there, from the ornamentation of Baroque opera to the dramatic power of Wagner! However, it is only when you watch a live performance that you really get "blown away!"
What should I wear?
A night at the Opera is seen as a glamorous and special evening. You can wear whatever you feel comfortable in, though many chose to dress up for the occasion. However, it is not necessary to attend in Black tie.
What if I‘m late?
Latecomers disturb the singers and the audience‘s enjoyment of the performance. Therefore we have a TV monitor for latecomers to watch the show and then they are brought to their assigned seats when there is a suitable break, however, this is often not until the Intermission.
When are the breaks?
There may be a scene change during the opera, this will last only a few minutes at the most, but it is not seen as a break in the opera and therefore it is not advisable to go to the toilet, the bar etc... during these few minutes. Seasoned operagoers know that it is the norm to stay seated until the interval. If you absolutely must leave your seat before the interval, you will not be allowed to return until the act ends.
Is it alright to Applaud?
You don‘t have to know a lot about opera to understand what makes a good performance, because when an Opera is good, you will feel it inside! If the performance has moved you or left you in awe, let the singers know. It is a passionate experience for EVERYONE! You can take your cue from the audience. The most obvious places to clap are at the end of an act and at the end of the show, but you might spontaneously applaud at the end of a well-sung aria (solo) or ensemble (duet, trio, quartet etc.) If you are really thrilled by what you have seen and heard you can shout "brava" for a woman, "bravo" for a man and "bravi" for a group of singers.
The most important thing of all to remember is to sit back, relax, and let the beauty of the opera wash over you and permeate your senses and enjoy the whole experience.
