OPERA ETIQUETTE
WHAT TO WEAR
Many people think of a night at the opera as a glamorous event and like to bring out their fancy attire. But it is also acceptable to dress comfortably. A big warm scarf, and a cozy jacket will also be appropriate.
BIG BAGS
Big backpacks are not allowed in the theater. If there is no other choice, you should check your big item in at the lobby, and pick it up after the show.
NO FOOD OR DRINKS
"No food or drinks" is an international standard for all major opera houses. The lobby is the only appropriate place for snacks and drinks unless otherwise specified.
ALWAYS BE EARLY
Please arrive early to ensure you have enough time to locate a restroom, finish your snack, talk to people you know, and find your seat before the orchestra tunes and the performance begins. Experienced opera patrons arrive 30-40 min in advance.
GETTING TO YOUR SEAT
Modern opera theater etiquette requires all patrons to enter the row while facing the back of the theater, that your rear end is not gliding along the row ten inches in front of people's faces. On the contrary, if you are in your seat and someone is approaching you the wrong way, the only way to avoid an "awkward moment" is to stand up.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Be sure to turn off your phone and other electronic devices you have with you.
REMAIN SEATED
Once in the theater it is courteous to remain seated and involved in the production until intermission. Please do not leave the theater unless there is an emergency.
APPLAUSE WELCOME
There are several times during a performance when it is appropriate to applaud the performers: when the conductor comes in; after the Overture; after an aria, ensemble or a big finale number. At the conclusion of the performance it is appropriate to continue applauding until all singers have stepped forward to accept their applause during "curtain call". Sometimes, audience members stand up to applaud to show extra appreciation. This is called a "standing ovation."
NO PHOTOS OR RECORDINGS PERMITTED
Many people think of a night at the opera as a glamorous event and like to bring out their fancy attire. But it is also acceptable to dress comfortably. A big warm scarf, and a cozy jacket will also be appropriate.
BIG BAGS
Big backpacks are not allowed in the theater. If there is no other choice, you should check your big item in at the lobby, and pick it up after the show.
NO FOOD OR DRINKS
"No food or drinks" is an international standard for all major opera houses. The lobby is the only appropriate place for snacks and drinks unless otherwise specified.
ALWAYS BE EARLY
Please arrive early to ensure you have enough time to locate a restroom, finish your snack, talk to people you know, and find your seat before the orchestra tunes and the performance begins. Experienced opera patrons arrive 30-40 min in advance.
GETTING TO YOUR SEAT
Modern opera theater etiquette requires all patrons to enter the row while facing the back of the theater, that your rear end is not gliding along the row ten inches in front of people's faces. On the contrary, if you are in your seat and someone is approaching you the wrong way, the only way to avoid an "awkward moment" is to stand up.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Be sure to turn off your phone and other electronic devices you have with you.
REMAIN SEATED
Once in the theater it is courteous to remain seated and involved in the production until intermission. Please do not leave the theater unless there is an emergency.
APPLAUSE WELCOME
There are several times during a performance when it is appropriate to applaud the performers: when the conductor comes in; after the Overture; after an aria, ensemble or a big finale number. At the conclusion of the performance it is appropriate to continue applauding until all singers have stepped forward to accept their applause during "curtain call". Sometimes, audience members stand up to applaud to show extra appreciation. This is called a "standing ovation."
NO PHOTOS OR RECORDINGS PERMITTED