You may not know how to fully appreciate an opera.Opera can evoke profound emotions through its characters, costumes and music.You can have an enjoyable night at the opera if you've never considered yourself a music buff.By the end of the performance, you will be an opera fan.
Step 1: You can read the opera's plot summary.
You can research the opera's plot to understand what emotions and themes each song is trying to convey.If the opera you want to see is in a language you don't know, look for the plot online to help you understand it better.
Step 2: Don't forget to listen to the opera music.
While you're getting ready for the event, put on a few of the opera's songs to listen to as background music.You can focus more on enjoying the event if you know how opera sounds before it.
Step 3: You can learn opera terminology.
When listening to other opera-goers or reading the show's brochure, you can learn more about the opera terms.A recitative is like a musical line that gives context to the plot, whereas an aria is a song where the characters say what they are feeling.The days before the opera are a good time to research these and other common terminology.Opera 101 has a comprehensive glossary of opera terms called "Opera ABC".
Step 4: The opera runs for a while.
Depending on how many acts an opera has and how long the break is, it can last anywhere from 2 hours to 4 hours.Visit the opera house's website for its entire length.If you are new to opera, choose a shorter one.Some operas give patrons a dinner break before they watch the last act.If your opera doesn't have a dinner break, it should have at least one break.
Step 5: It's a good idea to dress for the occasion.
If you feel out of place among opera-goers, wearing the appropriate clothes can help you fit in.Many venues don't require a dress code, but people dress formally for evening shows and more casually for afternoon shows.Ask the specific theater about their dress code a few days in advance.
Step 6: Before the opera, have a light dinner or snack.
Eating before an opera can keep you in a good mood and focus on the play.Most theaters don't allow guests to bring food or drink in, so eating before you go is the safest option.If you tend to doze off during musical productions, drinking tea or soda can help you stay alert.Patrons can eat hard candy, cough drops, or gum during the performance.If you think chewing on something might help you pay attention, ask.
Step 7: Arrive at least half an hour early.
Entering the venue at least 30 minutes before the show starts will give you time to explore the theater, find your seats, and get comfortable.Before the production starts, take a quick bathroom break and turn your phone off.If you arrive late, you will be allowed inside the venue, but may have to wait for the next act to enter the doors to get to your seat, as the light flooding into the dark theater will distract you.
Step 8: The brochure has a synopsis of the opera.
The synopsis can give you an idea of what the production is about and help you decide between the main characters.A brief outline of the acts and major arias is possible.If you don't remember which character is which, refer to the synopsis throughout the evening.Bring someone who has seen the opera before with you so you can ask them questions during the break.
Step 9: If you feel confused, pay attention to the translation.
Many operas have translations in a brochure or on a back-screen behind the stage.If you want to know what a character is singing about, you should read the subtitles.Don't stare at the screen for the whole time.The action on stage is more important than the dialogue.You might miss out on the spectacle if you don't pay attention to the stage.It is important to get a sense of the story's plot.It will allow you to relax.The quality of the translation can vary.
Step 10: The dialogue is more important than the music.
While paying attention to the plot is important, the meaning of an opera is best transferred through the music.If you want to immerse yourself in the singers and orchestra, take a break during major arias.It is possible to understand the plot and emotional intensity at the same time if you see an opera in a language other than Italian or Russian.
Step 11: Rent a pair of opera glasses to see more detail.
You can see costumes and theatrical expressions with opera glasses or theater binoculars.If you don't want to put the money into a pair of opera glasses, most opera venues allow patrons to rent them.
Step 12: Relate the opera to something you like.
If you're having a hard time connecting to the opera, try comparing it to something you understand.You should study the intricate costumes if you love fashion.Think about the similarities and differences of opera and musicals if you're a Broadway fan.You can keep getting bored if you focus on the elements.
Step 13: During the break, take a break.
People can feel restless if they sit for too long during an opera.Don't sit in your seat during the break.It is an opportunity to stretch your legs, talk to your neighbor, or get a snack outside.If you pay attention to how long the break lasts, you can get back to your seat by the next act.
Step 14: You should run with the intensity of opera.
Opera expresses powerful feelings through dialogue and song.Don't be afraid to laugh, gasp, and cry when the characters face tragedy.Opera can be fun if you put yourself in the characters' perspectives.Operas are made to stand on their own without knowing the language.Don't worry about understanding the characters or the plot.You can still appreciate the music.If you tend to tear up when you feel sad, you may want to bring some tissues.
Step 15: Wait until people clap.
Opera patrons clap during the production.After a particularly moving aria or act is most acceptable, there is still some structure as to whether the audience should clap.If you don't know whether to clap or not, watch the audience and try to follow their lead.If you want to compliment a particular singer, shout bravo, brava, or bravi.