FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS OPERA?
Opera is a type of musical theater that encourages a focus on acoustic instruments and unamplified singing. Opera emphasizes music over text, generally identifies with classical music, and shows off the natural qualities of the voice. Singers, instrumentalists, a director, and a conductor come together to tell a story through music.
WILL I BE ABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE OPERA?
Have no fear! Not only does Hartford Opera Theater perform opera in English, but many of our productions offer supertitles projected above the stage in case you have trouble understanding the words.
WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT OPERA?
There are many wonderful resources written over the years to introduce people of all ages and backgrounds to opera! Here are some resources we recommend to help familiarize yourself with this theatrical experience:
If you are interested in Hartford Opera Theater preparing an educational presentation for your school or event, please contact us through the Contact page on our website. To find out more information about our educational outreach programs, please visit our Outreach page.
IS THERE A DRESS CODE?
There is no dress code. We believe the focus should be on the music and the performance, so you are encouraged to keep things casual.
CAN I BRING MY CHILD TO THE OPERA?
Depending on the subject matter of the opera, opera can be great for children! Our fall production: New in November 11 contains ADULT THEMES and is recommended for ages 16 and up.
HOW LONG IS THE OPERA?
Running times vary by opera and performance. Operas can last anywhere from 10-20 minutes (like Fortune's Children: A Zoom Opera or selections from our New in November Festival of opera vignettes). Full-length operas can be anywhere from 1 hour to 3 hours long.
Here is a list of running times for our operas this season:
New in November 11 - Approximately 2 hours
If you have any additional questions about attending the opera, please Contact us!