First Timers GuideGoing to the opera is fun! Whether you are attending an opera performance for the first time or simply need a refresher course, you probably have questions about the art form - and possible some apprehension about your upcoming experience. We offer this informative and humorous guide in the hope that it will help you make the exciting leap into the world of opera in comfort and with confidence.
Why should I go to the opera when I can nap at home? Why should I go to the opera when I can nap at home?
Will I be the only one at the opera who doesn't have grandkids? Aren't all opera singers fat, shrill people in horned helmets? Do I need to speak another language to understand opera? If you would like to know what the opera's about before the curtain rises, you may attend our free pre-opera discussion 45 before the performance. The speaker will give an overview of the plot and describe the music you will hear, and sometimes singers are there to perform live samples of the music. The printed program for the evening provides a synopsis, a short composer biography, and a list of the cast performing in the production. For those of you who are overachievers and want to know even more ahead of time, visit the WATCH LISTEN LEARN section of the website, as well as the Indianapolis Opera Blog for all kinds of behind the scenes content. What do I wear to the opera? Do I need a tux or tiara? Traffic was terrible! Will they still let me in? Who handles the sound system during the performances? Do the singers use microphones? When I applaud, can I also use my air horn? If you want to show a singer that you are really impressed with his or her performance, instead of leading the wave or hooting an hollaring, there are certain words you can yell: BRAVO! (BRAH-voh!) if it's a male singer Honestly, though, most Americans aren't familiar with these last two variations and either BRAVO! or BRAVA! will get your message across just fine. Standing while you are cheering - the well-known standing ovation - is the ultimate way of expressing your appreciation for a great performance. It's best to wait until the curtain call to do this, though, unless you want a nasty rebuke from the person sitting behind you. Am I going to have to take out a loan to buy tickets? So, are they just playing euchre backstage? It usually takes 12 stagehands anywhere from 10 to 15 hours just to hang the lighting instruments. The costume crew numbers 7 to 10 people who fit and alter costumes for each production, as well as see to it that the singers look great when they out on stage. There are three or more wig and makeup specialists. Depending on the requirements for each opera, the orchestra averages 50 to 65 players, plus the music librarian. The chorus consists of 40 singers chosen from local auditions, plus the chorus master and the rehearsal accompanist. The stage director and his or her assistants are in charge of the action in the performance, and the stage director works closely with the lighting designer to create the look you see on stage. During the performance, the production stage manager calls the cures for lighting and scene changes, and, with his or her assistants, directs the performers onto the stage. There are all sorts of other technical assistants, sound technicians, and the house stage crew, consisting or a carpenter, three electricians and a fly man. So while you are listening to and watching the principal artists, don't forget the many people back stage who make it all possible. |
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passion, drama and excitement of opera to Indiana and surrounding communities. MORE |
CONTACT250 East 38th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46205 Main: 317.283.3470 Tickets: 800-745-3000 Fax: 317.923.5611 info@indyopera.org |
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