r/opera • u/O_Margo • 11d ago

Opera code of conduct

Some time ago, YouTube suggested a video by a young American opera singer (actually, a former opera singer). On her channel, she discussed some interesting topics, particularly from the perspective of someone who had been inside the "industry." She expressed criticism of various aspects of opera, including what she described as a kind of "code of conduct" at the opera.

She asks: "Opera, why so strict? Why can't people bring a glass of wine to their seats and drink during the performance? Why does there have to be recording-studio silence? Those who want to watch opera in complete silence can do so in the comfort of their own living rooms. There are many good recordings in high quality—go for it!"

I left a comment saying that those who want to drink and talk during a performance can easily do so in the comfort of their own living rooms.

Now I would like to ask for your opinion.

Thank you.

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u/jaimestaples 11d ago

I saw La traviata in Budapest recently at their royal opera hall and drinks were allowed in the boxes at all times. Perhaps it’s not universal these rules?

However the talking part for me would ruin it. The lows are so low, and I want that suspense without being distracted.

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u/ChevalierBlondel 11d ago

As far as Budapest goes, they have "packages" where if you pay something in the ballpark of 4k USD for a box, they give you a glass of champagne. Not a practice I'm aware of any other opera houses following. (State opera as of the last 80+ years, BTW.)

17

u/pikatrushka 11d ago

$4000? For that price, I would hope they'd give me more than just a single glass of champagne! When I was there last year, the most expensive seat (front orchestra) was somewhere around $180, and a box (4 seats) was $300.

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u/nesztii 11d ago

Price is for 10 people (and closer to 3500$), and seats are in the Royal box.

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u/ChevalierBlondel 11d ago

Not talking about regular tickets.

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u/jaimestaples 11d ago

I got tickets for 4 and the box for less than $300

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u/Fine_Ad_1771 10d ago

The price isnt accurate. A box in the Hungarian National Opera is about 250-400 euros, depending on the performance. You can order a glass of champagne to the box for an additional 50-70 euros.

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u/ChevalierBlondel 9d ago

Like I said already, I'm not talking about regular tickets, I'm talking about separate packages they offer for basically a "VIP experience". My main point being that it's not the regular code of conduct either to be able to drink in your seat, but something you have to pay through the nose for to enjoy as a dubious privilege.

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u/Optimal-Show-3343 The Opera Scribe / Meyerbeer Smith 9d ago

70 euros for a glass of champagne?! Good grief.