Figaro? Figaro? Figaro?
- Paulina
- Oct 3, 2015
- 3 min read
- The Marriage of Figaro. The Lyric Opera.
My Sunday afternoon nap was rudely interrupted by the sound of an incoming text message. I lazily searched the living room for my phone, opened the message and read something I was not expecting. A friend was inviting me to accompany him to the season opener at the Lyric Opera in Chicago.
The term “opera” may elicit wide-ranging associations. From “boring”, if you’re not into that sort of thing, to “art”, if you happen to be artistically inclined. Your mind may conjure images of majestic opera halls, high ceilings, grand décor, women in evening gowns (with long gloves), men in tuxedos, listening intently to infamous sopranos, tenors, baritones and altos. Alternatively, if you happen to be the type of person who does not own a tuxedo and/or an evening gown and your concept of an “elegant” Saturday afternoon is drinking beer from a glass, and not the bottle – you may feel a little apprehensive.
Never fear! The opera can be a wonderful experience – you just need to be prepared!
- Gorgeous interior of the Lyric Opera in Chicago
Step one: What to wear?
If you do a simple internet search you will find a lot of advice concerning opera dress code. The fact is, some people dress up (and by dress up I mean black suits + bowties and long gowns) while others wear jeans.
Here’s my suggestion: dress up. Why? You’ll feel special and less out-of-place. I recommend a dress and shawl for women and a suit for men. Turn your visit into an elegant and extraordinary evening!
Step two: when to arrive?
Try getting to the opera at least 30 minutes before the show. You’ll have an opportunity to drink a cocktail, watch the elegantly-dressed people, admire the building and find your seat in peace.
DO NOT arrive late or at the last minute. Once the show starts – they will NOT let you in!
Step four: how to act?
Be courteous and respectful. Be on your best behavior. Once the performance starts, do not eat anything, do not drink anything, DO NOT make noise! No talking, no shuffling in your seat, no chewing and no crinkling! No phone! No flash! No pictures!
Why? There’s nothing worse than trying to focus on the music and the singing while someone in the next aisle is making noise. I promise that you’ll understand once you’re there!
Step three: what to expect?
Expect to read subtitles. Most operas are not in English but there are subtitles over the stage to make it easier for everyone to follow the plot. It’s a bit like watching a foreign movie – only not as much reading.
Expect the show to last about 3 hours. There is a break in the middle of the performance (about 20-30 minutes). The break is called an intermission. There might be additional short breaks in between scenes.
Expect to hear beautiful music and heavenly voices.
Expect to relax – just immerse yourself in the performance. Turn off your phone. Forget about your everyday problems and struggles – focus on the beautiful scenery, the costumes, the gorgeous music and voices, the lavish interior. Let go of the world outside the opera house. Just for a little while. You will be happy, I promise.
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