OPERA COURTESIES

One of the most unique and amazing aspects of opera is that the music is not amplified. The orchestra is not electronically enhanced and the singers do not use microphones. Because of this, audience noise is easily heard and can easily disrupt enjoyment of the opera.

Golden Rules of Opera Etiquette

For the enjoyment of the entire audience, San Diego Opera requests your cooperation with the following policies:

• We’d love to hold the curtain for you, but if you arrive late, we will not be able to seat you. Have a glass of wine and enjoy Act I on the televisions provided in the lobby and we’ll get you in after the 1st intermission. Hey, it’s better than missing the whole thing!
• Many people are allergic to perfume and cologne, so please spritz, don’t marinate.
• For a “crinkle-free” performance, please unwrap candies or lozenges before the curtain goes up.
• Please turn off all electronic communication devices. The ring of your phone or glow of your texts can irritate your neighbor…and no one wants that.
• The overture begins the performance so please hold your chatting as it starts.
• Opera is full of romantic music but when you lean your heads together to snuggle, it can block the view of the person behind you.
• We’re sure you have a lovely voice, but please refrain from talking, humming or singing during the performance.
• Please fight the urge to rifle through your bag during the performance - wait until some applause and go for it!
• Show them love! We know the parking lot gets busy, but please stay and show the artists you appreciate their hard work.
• We love kids under 6 but even the best behaved child (or husband) can have trouble sitting through an entire performance. Visit our website for great Education programs for grades K-5.
• When in doubt, please remember the original Golden Rule – Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.