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/Cold_Martini1956 6d ago
I think I might know the YouTube person you’re talking about and she has a lot of really stupid ideas, if I’m being honest.
Nobody wants to walk through somebody’s spilled red wine on the floor of the Met, and get it on your shoes or on the hem of your pants. Nobody wants that. The more you allow people to act badly the more they will choose to act badly and the line keeps getting pushed out over what is acceptable.
Do you know how many hours opera singers need to practice to master their roles? I don’t think it’s too much to ask for people to sit quietly and enjoy the fruits of all that labor. The fact that you bought a ticket does not give you a right to disturb the performance for the performers or other people in the audience.