Opera is for all ages to enjoy! – Opera is full of emotion, passion, human conflict and discovery. Whether it is your first time, or a die-hard opera fan, you will have a great time. Especially with the invention of the ‘Supertitle,’ where the text is projected above the stage on a screen, you are able to follow everything being sung on stage. All operas are performed in their original language.

What to Wear:  Many people think of a night at the opera as a glamorous event and an excuse to bring out the fancy attire. But, it is also acceptable to dress comfortably and be you. If a sequined dress or a tux isn’t your thing, come in whatever you think is appropriate for an evening out. For dress rehearsals, the casual attire that students wear to school is perfectly acceptable. A light jacket is suggested because the theatre is air-conditioned.

When to Arrive:  It is always a good idea to arrive early to the opera to ensure you are able to find your seat and get settled before the performance begins. The orchestra may be tuning, so it is important that you find a seat as quickly and quietly as possible. If you are late, you may miss the first overture or even the first act! Don’t forget to use the restroom before the opera begins, as the first act is often one hour in length. If you are attending a student matinee or evening dress rehearsal performance, be sure to read the study guide that is available on our website to familiarize yourself with the synopsis of the opera since there are not programs available.

Noise: Remember that this is a live performance and unlike many staged performances, the opera singers do not use microphones. This makes it essential to wait until intermission to unwrap gum/candy, talk to your neighbor or use electronic devices that may distract others. Be sure to turn off cell phone and pagers.

Applause: There are several times during a performance when it is appropriate to applaud the performers. The first opportunity to applaud takes place when the conductor takes the podium at the very beginning of the performance and when he/she returns to the podium following intermission(s). It is also acceptable to applaud after an overture or aria in the middle of a performance. Applaud when the performance moves you. If you are not sure when it is appropriate for applause, follow the lead of the rest of the audience. When you feel comfortable at a performance you may show your appreciation to the performers by shouting “Bravo!” for a male performer, “Brava!” for a female performer, or “Bravi!” for an ensemble. At the conclusion of the performance, singers who performed principal roles in the opera will take their "curtain call." It is appropriate to continue applauding until all singers have stepped forward to accept their applause. Sometimes, when audience members are so impressed with the overall performance of the opera they will stand and applaud the entire ensemble, which is referred to as a "standing ovation."

 Special Notes for Attending a Student Matinee or Evening Dress Rehearsal:

 

1. The production team will be sitting at their table in the theater. Because this is a ‘dress rehearsal’, the production team will be quietly talking and taking notes, and may even move around the empty seats to check things on the stage; this is not an invitation for you to move or talk. They need silence to do their job.
   
    
2. There are no food or drinks are allowed in the theatre. Teachers and parents are encouraged to have students eat a hearty breakfast and/or a snack BEFORE they arrive to the theatre.
   
    

Opera San José's educational outreach programs are made possible in part by a grant from

 City of San José

as well as financial support from these corporations.