Post by Talissa on Aug 7, 2003 20:03:51 GMT 11
Here's an opera etiquette guide that I found at Opera Australia's website, just for your reference.
Opera Etiquette
This guide was developed to make sure that everyone gets the most from their opera experience.
Before the Performance
What to wear?
Many people worry about what to wear to the opera. There is no need to wear formal attire, contrary to what many people think. In fact, it's best to wear whatever makes you comfortable. Opening nights are a special occasion and provide the opportunity for people to get more dressed up.
Mobile Phones/Pagers
This cannot be stressed enough - mobile phones and pager should be switched of before you enter the theatre.
What if I'm running late?
It's best to arrive at the performance at least 15 minutes before it starts. If you arrive late you will not be admitted to the theatre until there is an appropriate break in the proceedings, often you will find you will be 'locked out' until the first interval. When you enter please do so quickly and quietly to minimise the disturbance to the performers and people around you.
Check the website to see if there is a Marconi opera talk before the performance you're attending. These free talks take place 45 minutes prior to the start of the performance and this way you're guaranteed to be on time.
Will I be able to understand what's going on?
You'll always know what's happening, as each performance features a simultaneous English translation above the stage, known as surtitles. In addition, a brief synopsis is handed to you as you enter the theatre.
During the Performance
Noise during the performance
The only noise during a performance should be that of the performers. Talking, coughing, sneezing, unwrapping of sweets or food and rummaging in handbags or pockets should be saved for interval or after the performance. If you can't avoid coughing, a handkerchief will help you muffle the disruption.
When do I clap?
As the conductor enters the pit at the beginning of the performance, at the end of big arias, duets and ensembles, at the end of each act and at the conclusion of the performance. If you're still uncertain about the right spot in which to acknowledge the performers, it's perfectly OK to wait for the rest of the audience to clap before applauding. Feel free to shout 'bravo' to a man, 'brava' to a lady or 'bravi' to a group. Performers enjoy receiving cheers from the audience.
May I take photographs during the performance?
Photography and recording of any kind is strictly prohibited.
After the Performance
Leaving Early
We understand that sometimes you cannot stay for the curtain calls but if you must leave
please do so discreetly. It is inconsiderate to the performers who have been entertaining people to rush off before the theatre lights come up.
This guide was developed to make sure that everyone gets the most from their opera experience.
Before the Performance
What to wear?
Many people worry about what to wear to the opera. There is no need to wear formal attire, contrary to what many people think. In fact, it's best to wear whatever makes you comfortable. Opening nights are a special occasion and provide the opportunity for people to get more dressed up.
Mobile Phones/Pagers
This cannot be stressed enough - mobile phones and pager should be switched of before you enter the theatre.
What if I'm running late?
It's best to arrive at the performance at least 15 minutes before it starts. If you arrive late you will not be admitted to the theatre until there is an appropriate break in the proceedings, often you will find you will be 'locked out' until the first interval. When you enter please do so quickly and quietly to minimise the disturbance to the performers and people around you.
Check the website to see if there is a Marconi opera talk before the performance you're attending. These free talks take place 45 minutes prior to the start of the performance and this way you're guaranteed to be on time.
Will I be able to understand what's going on?
You'll always know what's happening, as each performance features a simultaneous English translation above the stage, known as surtitles. In addition, a brief synopsis is handed to you as you enter the theatre.
During the Performance
Noise during the performance
The only noise during a performance should be that of the performers. Talking, coughing, sneezing, unwrapping of sweets or food and rummaging in handbags or pockets should be saved for interval or after the performance. If you can't avoid coughing, a handkerchief will help you muffle the disruption.
When do I clap?
As the conductor enters the pit at the beginning of the performance, at the end of big arias, duets and ensembles, at the end of each act and at the conclusion of the performance. If you're still uncertain about the right spot in which to acknowledge the performers, it's perfectly OK to wait for the rest of the audience to clap before applauding. Feel free to shout 'bravo' to a man, 'brava' to a lady or 'bravi' to a group. Performers enjoy receiving cheers from the audience.
May I take photographs during the performance?
Photography and recording of any kind is strictly prohibited.
After the Performance
Leaving Early
We understand that sometimes you cannot stay for the curtain calls but if you must leave
please do so discreetly. It is inconsiderate to the performers who have been entertaining people to rush off before the theatre lights come up.
