Getting Opera Down To An Art

If you're new to the opera world and uncertain of what to expect, how to dress or even what's all about, check out blogger Carolyn Coles' tips!

Opera-goer Carolyn was at The Marriage of Figaro and wrote a fantastic post on her blog about everything you wanted to ask about going to the opera but were afraid to ask.

The tricks of our trade:

Arrive early. Taxis and parking can be hard to come by, especially if a concert or Canucks game is on. Arriving early reduces stress and increases the pre show fun. We now aim to arrive about 30-45 minutes early to settle in, enjoy a drink and biscotti, and people watch.

Attend shows on weekends or non work nights. This leaves time for an indulgent dinner out pre Opera and just adds to the fun. The crowd seems slightly older on weekend nights, and slightly more dressed up.

Choose your seats wisely. We originally sat very close to the stage, but have now moved back to around the 9th row. This way we do not have to strain our necks too hard to see the subtitles and also are not being spit on (seriously).

Drink more coffee than alcohol based beverages. We’ve found the recipe to staying awake and engaged during the Opera is to have ample cappuccinos or mochas well before the show begins. No matter how riveting the show, wine makes us zzzz.

Eat before you arrive. The food options are slim. We’ve arrived so starving that we devour a bag of chocolate covered almonds and peppermints for dinner. This does not set you up for long lasting energy.

Dress up! Or don’t! You will see people wearing t-shirts and jeans, evening dresses, and everything in between. Wear what makes you feel comfortable that night.
The opera is a particularly great place for fashion watching! I personally like to dress up, and enjoy seeing Vancouver dressed in something other than gortex and luon for the night.

Read the program! They do a wonderful job creating a content rich program. I prefer not to read the show summary (it gives too much away!) but I love getting to know the performers and musicians.

We couldn't have said it better ourselves! Thanks Carolyn!

~Ling Chan, Social Media Manager