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What should I wear to the opera?
There's
really no "dress code" for opera. Some people will come wearing
black tie, others will come wearing blue jeans. Especially
in Rhode Island, the capital of casual attire, anything goes when going to the
opera. Some
dress up for a special night out, and some dress down for comfort. Either
way, the most important thing to remember is wear what
makes you comfortable, and be prepared to have a great time.
Since many operas aren't sung in English, how
will I know what's going on?
We make
it easy! There are translations (surtitles or supertitles) in English projected above the stage at
every Opera Providence performance. You don't have to know anything at all
about the opera to follow the drama, moment by moment. Also a full
synopsis of the opera is provided in the
evening's Program booklet and
online as well. But if you want to learn a little more, you can also
attend a free preview lecture at the theater, an hour before the performance.
You may also want to listen to the music from the opera you're about to see.
Often your local library will have a CD or tape recording, or you may purchase
it at your local music store or online at a place like
Can I bring kids?
Generally, opera is better suited to older children because the stories often
contain adult themes, and following the surtitles can be difficult for new
readers. Sometimes Opera Providence offers operas sung
in English that are more kid-friendly. When bringing a child to the opera, it is
helpful to explain the story in advance and instruct them on proper audience
behavior.
How long does the opera last?
Running times vary per opera, but many clock in between 2-3 hours in length,
like most Broadway musicals. For time estimates for the coming season, click on
the opera you are interested in.
Is there intermission?
Yes. Opera Providence has two intermissions for most three-act operas, and a single
intermission for two-act operas.
What if I'm late?
Please, try to be on time. Latecomers will not
be seated until a suitable interlude in the opera (often after the overture, but
sometimes not until intermission).
When should I clap?
At the end of big arias and, of course, at the final curtain call.
If you really enjoyed a singer's performance, feel free to
shout out "Bravo!" (for a male performer), "Brava!" (for a woman) or "Bravi!"
(for a group) - singers love an appreciative audience!
Any thing else I should know?
Please remain quiet from the time the orchestra starts (the overture is part of
the opera, too!) so that everyone around you can enjoy the music. Don't open
candy or gum wrappers, talk, use your cell phone or pager during the
performance. Be sure to turn off your pager, watch alarm and phone when you
enter the theater. There is plenty of opportunity to chat with people during
intermission. Please do not sing along, tap in time, get up and move around or
try to read your program while the performance is in progress - it's really
distracting to the people around you!
ABOVE ALL, ENJOY YOURSELF!
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