It's a great way to spend an evening.You can be transported to another time and place with the costumes, drama, and music.For people who have never attended an opera, it can be overwhelming.People can't experience this dramatic art form because of expensive tickets and singing in a foreign language.It can be enjoyable to attend your first opera.
Step 1: You can call the opera company.
Opera houses try to increase their audiences.Those new to the art form can use them.In their current season, they can give you advice on operas that would appeal to a new attendee.If there are discounts for dress rehearsals, be sure to ask.Those new to the opera may be offered tours by local opera companies.Some opera companies have clubs for younger attendees that offer discounts and social events.
Step 2: Opera vocabulary can be learned.
Opera has its own unique vocabulary.You will be more familiar with what to expect if you learn a few of these terms.Aaria is a solo song that occurs during a pause in the action and expresses a character's current situation or emotions.The lyrics are the basis of the performance.The operetta is a genre that features spoken dialogue as well as singing.The types of voices of opera singers are described by the termsbaritone,bass, Soprano, andtenor.
Step 3: You can choose a good opera.
Some operas are more accessible than others.If you choose a relatively short production with some familiar music, you will have a better experience.It's a good idea for new to the genre to look at familiar titles such as La Boheme or Carmen.The Marriage of Figaro and The Magic Flute are operas by Mozart.If you are intimidated by the foreign languages used in other productions, an English-language opera may appeal to you.Decide if you want to attend a comic opera such as The Barber of Seville or a serious opera likeCarmen.
Step 4: Purchase your tickets.
It is a good idea to purchase your tickets in advance because popular operas sell out quickly.You don't need to spend a lot on the most expensive seats for your first opera.Opera houses are designed to accommodate large audiences, so the inexpensive seats up high in the opera house will still have good acoustics.Opera glasses are similar to binoculars and can be used to view the performers.There are discounted tickets to look for.The Metropolitan Opera in New York City offers a limited number of tickets for $25 a day.
Step 5: You can learn about the opera.
You will appreciate the production if you know the story ahead of time.Do your opera company offer information on upcoming productions?You should buy a CD of excerpts or highlights from the opera that you will be watching.You can listen to the music or watch the videos on the internet.You can ask the opera house to send you a program in advance of the performance, or if they post a synopsis online.Programs help you understand the plot and characters.
Step 6: The night before an opera is a good time to sleep.
To maximize your enjoyment of the production, you want to be fully awake.Opera takes more mental energy to fully appreciate because you will be experiencing something unfamiliar to you.You're not used to watching operas for more than three hours.
Step 7: You should eat before you leave.
Three hours is the length of many operas.You don't want to ruin your experience by having a stomach growl.
Step 8: It's appropriate to dress appropriately.
You don't need to wear tuxedos or fine furs to fit in with the audience at the opera.Unless it is opening night or a Gala, most people wear cocktail dresses or suits.More casual attire, such as dresses or sport jackets, are often worn to matinees.Opera houses don't want performers and other guests to be affected by the scent of cologne or perfume.
Step 9: Arrive early to watch the performance.
If you are not rushing to enter, your evening will be more enjoyable.If public transportation is available, be sure to take it.Most opera houses have doors open for 45 minutes to an hour before curtain time.You can explore the grandeur of the setting if you arrive early.You may be able to pre-order your drinks to avoid long lines.If you didn't bring opera glasses, you can rent them at the venue before the opera starts.You should check to see if the opera house offers tours or talks before the performance.You can't enter the theater until after the first act or a break in the action.
Step 10: Obtain a program.
Purchase a program to give you a synopsis of the opera you are about to see if you did not receive one before the performance.The performers of the opera will be featured in the program.
Step 11: Don't disrespect the rules of general politeness.
No microphones aid the performance of the opera.It is important to remain quiet during the opera.Before the performance, turn off cell phones and pagers.Don't open candy or gum wrappers.Don't talk during the performance.
Step 12: Get ready to read.
Opera companies in the United States use supertitles, which project the line-by-line translation above the stage so you can follow along.In real time, the supertitles will help you understand the performance.Don't worry about reading a lot of books.The music shows the emotions that drive the plot.
Step 13: Enjoy the rest of the time.
The operas are usually 20–25 minutes long and feature at least one break.It's a good time to use the restroom or stretch your legs.A drink or snack can be enjoyed at most venues.Before the performance begins again, bells will sound to warn you that the show is almost over.
Step 14: Applause enthusiastically.
A lot of work goes into staging an opera production.Let them know that they are appreciated.People clap at the end of arias and the curtain call.If you want to yell "Brava!" for female performers, feel free to.You can say "Bravi!" for everyone.
Step 15: Before you bring the kids, check.
Depending on several factors, it may not be wise to include your children in your opera outing.Some operas are not suitable for children.You should ask the opera house if the production is recommended for children.The Dallas Opera recommends that children younger than 6 not attend their main performances.Check the age policies as well.