New to opera?

Which opera should I choose?

If you’ve never been to the opera before, Street Scene is a great choice. The action takes place in the stifling heat of a 1940s New York tenement block. Behind every door is a different story and the music is just as varied! Jazz and the jitterbug meets opera and musical theatre in this colourful new production.

If you’d like to explore further and need help deciding, get in touch via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or call our friendly Box Office team on 0113 223 3600 and we’ll be happy to help.

How much does it cost?

Opera is much cheaper than many people think, with tickets starting from just £15 at Leeds Grand Theatre (prices vary by venue).

If you have never been to the opera before, you can also sign up to get £20 tickets in the stalls via our Try it ON scheme. Students and young people aged 16-29 can sign up to Opera North’s free Under 30s scheme and get tickets for just £10, as well as other great benefits.

How long is an opera?

Most operas are the length of an average film (between two and three hours), but with an interval – or sometimes two – during which you can stretch your legs, get a drink at the bar, or whatever you wish!

Each opera’s running time is displayed on the relevant webpage for each opera.

Will I be able to understand what is being sung?

Yes. Many operas here are performed in English translation. Those that are performed in their original language (like Italian, French or German) are surtitled, which means that a translation appears on screens at the side of the stage. As singing takes longer than speaking, your eyes can easily move between stage and screen, so you won’t miss any of the action.

The language in which every opera will be performed can be found on the relevant webpage for each opera.

Where should I sit?

That depends on how much you want to spend. The most expensive seats tend to be in the stalls or dress circle, and the cheapest high up in the balcony. However, you can get a good view and hear everything from nearly all areas of each theatre that we perform in.

With our Try it ON scheme, you can book fantastic seats in the stalls – close to the action – for just £20!

What should I wear?

There is no dress code for Opera North performances. If you want to dress up and make a special occasion of it, go for it, but jeans are equally welcome. It’s your night!

Do I need to read up beforehand?

There’s no need to prepare before you come along, although a quick glance through the plot synopsis (you’ll find one on the webpage for each opera) is always handy.

We also produce an introductory ‘in a nutshell’ guide for each opera which includes a summary of the plot, characters, set and costume designs, musical highlights to listen out for and a little about the opera’s history. 

Street Scene in a nutshell »
The Marriage of Figaro in a nutshell »
The Turn of the Screw in a nutshell »

Is there any opera etiquette I need to follow?

Not really. Generally, applause happens at the end of an act, or after a particularly spectacular solo or duet. If you’re not sure, wait for others around you.

We do ask that phones are on silent and put away during the performance (please don’t take any photos or video), but before and afterwards, feel free to snap away. Even better, tag us on Instagram or Twitter and let us know how your opera experience is going!

What will it sound like?

Opera singers do not use microphones, as their voices are trained to project over a full orchestra. This means that there is no barrier between the performer’s voice and audience, making opera a unique experience. The live orchestra itself, which can be up to 60 players (depending on the piece), provides an extra thrill.

However, the music of one composer can sound totally unlike another. Hear extracts of different operas on our YouTube channel or Soundcloud.

What else can I expect from an opera?

– Opera deals with all kinds of human experiences – it can surprise people how relevant opera can feel, whether the piece was written last week or 100 years ago.

– It’s perfect for people who love experiencing emotion in its rawest form. Nowadays, opera singers are also talented actors, so you can become fully immersed in all the drama.

– ‘Opera’ is as broad a genre as ‘film’ – there’s comedy, tragedy, thrillers, and everything in between. Each season, we programme a wide variety of pieces, so there is something for everyone. Explore what’s on below…