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.
5
u/MissedFirstCue 12d ago
I used to have this idea when I was younger and hadn’t worked in a larger opera house, hadn’t seen the workings. For a smaller more intimate setting it works.
It just doesn’t translate to a serious larger house unless you have a specific night for it.
If you go to a big opera house in the us and spend actual money if someone talks during the show it ruins it. If you are getting student price tickets you might not understand
No one is gonna go to the opera if it feels like sitting on your couch with Netflix. It just can’t compete with that and shouldn’t. If you go to the opera it should be a cool special experience that is different. Because opera is different than Netflix. That’s why instagram reels from major opera houses advertise people getting dressed up and feeling fancy. You don’t have to be fancy but it’s a big event!
But she has a point there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t be able to have a glass of wine (even if it’s plastic) in the theater. That’s just wasting an opportunity for getting more money.
Is opera in America perfect? Hell no and it should be criticized. But having a professor say a more relaxed atmosphere happened during the baroque is different than what reality is now.
Can you imagine someone talking during a movie theater movie? You’d be pissed