Here are some common questions and answers for first-time young opera goers:

What's an opera?
An opera is a play set to music, a special art form that used music to express emotions and to tell a story.

How long is it?
A children's opera is normally 45 minutes long, so you won't get bored! A adult opera is pretty long--anywhere from three to four hours!

Can I talk to my neighbor or sing along?
Nope! You need to be quiet so that your neighbors can hear the music, and so can you! The performers have studied for years to create a performance for you, so you owe them the courtesy of not talking, or singing along.

What about cell phones?
Turn them off!

Okay, what do I wear?
Here's what you DON'T wear: tee-shirts, ragged pants or shorts, flip-flops, skirts that show your belly button...you get the picture! Bottom line: people wear just about anything to the opera, as long as it's near, clean and in good taste.

Will the opera be sung in English?
By and large, children's operas are sung in English, or, in some cases, are translated into English from the original language it was written in.

If you'd like to learn more about operae, we suggest you order "Your Passport to Opera," which is published by Opera Volunteers International and which is available through the CPYO. It gives a wonderful overview of opera, opera ettiquette, operatic voices, the great opera composers--an excellent holiday gift! To order a copy ($7.00 which includes postage and shipping), give us a call at 717.533.8817