Ramblings on Opera Etiquette - Part I

Totes inappropes, guys. Totes inappropes.

Okay, here I go! I'll be breaking this up into a few parts so this post doesn't go on for ever and a day. XD

Among the many misconceptions about opera, one of the more puzzling aspects is the etiquette. Never mind the screaming fat lady in the last act with the long blonde braids, shield and horned helmet; I’ve heard more false impressions about opera etiquette than anything else.
To someone who hasn’t experienced it, opera can seem like a completely different culture, something entirely foreign and aloof, and this can be just another reason to avoid the theatre. I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be like that! Opera is meant to be enjoyed, not treated as some sort of relic. Opera etiquette, like most etiquette, is about being considerate to both the performers and fellow audience members. It’s as simple as that! So, whenever you don’t know what to do, just ask yourself, “Will this disturb others?” If so, don’t do it.
This is a short, concise guide to help you understand the culture of opera and to, ultimately, make your time at the theatre more enjoyable. Get ready to check one more excuse off of your list!

What (not) to wear

In olden days, going to the opera was a social event. In a way, it still is but back then, it was the place to show off, gossip and stare at others freely. Special, elaborate dresses and tuxedos were made specifically for these occasions because appearances were of the utmost importance to ladies and gentlemen of society. Nowadays, however, the dress code is much more relaxed. Gone are the days of stain and bustles and tuxedos. Instead, for non-gala opera performances, modern society favours something more akin to the “Sunday dress.” Your choice isn’t limited to just these items but these are foolproof.

Gentlemen: Slacks and a button-down shirt with dress shoes will do nicely. Or, if you are so inclined, a suit and tie also are considered fashionable.

Ladies: Dress pants, blouse, below/at the knee skirt, tailored dress, dressy shoes, or anything conservative and beautiful will suffice.

Now, this doesn’t mean you have to look like your great aunt/uncle Sally/Sal; being fashionable is more than acceptable! However, there are a few things that aren’t considered tasteful. These are a few things you should avoid.

Gentlemen: Jeans, tennis shoes, sandals/flip-flops/anything open toe, shorts, anything too baggy and doesn’t cover your boxers, work boots, graphic t-shirts, too much bling, baseball caps or other casual headwear, wife-beaters and anything that doesn’t cover your shoulders, etc.

Ladies: Jeans (unless they’re dark wash and dressy), hoochy skirts that are basically loin clothes, sandals/flip-flops/anything open toe that isn’t dressy, casual tops that you would wear to the gym/pick up your kids, shorts you would wear to the beach/grocery store/etc, tank-tops, anything way too tight (I don’t care how bangin’ your body is), etc.

Now, on to gala events. Galas are special occasions in opera where people get really dressed up and fancy with a reception after the performance. Sometimes you have dinner or cocktails and meet the cast! In these occasions, Sunday dress doesn’t really cut it. Here are a few guidelines to picking the perfect semi-formal to formal outfit.

Gentlemen: Have you seen Casablanca? Who hasn’t? Okay, if you haven’t, go look it up. The outfit Rick wears—the white dinner jacket with the bow tie—is absolutely perfect. Of course, you don’t have to try and look exactly like the incomparable Humphrey Bogart to fit in at a gala. I would recommend a tuxedo outfit. Yep. That’s it for you guys!

Ladies: It’s always more difficult for ladies when it comes to outfits but in this case it’s actually very simple. Any dress that’s form flattering will do. Of course, don’t go in a cocktail dress. That’s a bit too short. Something semi-formal that is beautiful but doesn’t show off too much skin is perfect.

A gala is a social event and you want to look your best. Just make sure that your outfit doesn’t command more respect that you.

Hopefully, that was a bit helpful and informative! Part II coming soon! :D