First time attending the opera? Welcome! We’re glad to have you! Below is information that you may find useful before you attend the performance. If you have a question that has not been answered below, contact us at manager@operaroanoke.org and we’ll be glad to help!
There is no specific dress code for Opera Roanoke performances. Some patrons enjoy getting all dressed up for a performance and consider it to be a part of the overall experience, but it’s certainly not a requirement. Others come in business attire and some prefer a more casual look, like jeans and a nice shirt. The important thing is that you are comfortable for the performance. We do ask that patrons refrain from wearing strong perfumes or colognes as it may disturb other patrons with scent-sensitivities.
That depends. The average opera performance usually lasts between 2 ½ to 3 hours. Some operas are only one act and last about 90 minutes. The same goes for more modern operas. For each Opera Roanoke performance, the duration will be listed with other show-specific information. There is usually at least one 20-minute intermission during each performance.
No! While it’s true that many operas are in languages like Italian, German, or French, Opera Roanoke always projects supertitles (translations in English) above the stage for each performance. You’ll be able to read along to follow the story and, because it takes longer to sing a sentence in opera than it does to read it, you won’t miss a minute of the action.
Generally, operas are more well-suited to older kids simply because of the length of the show and the subject matter. Some (not all) operas contain adult themes and reading the supertitles may be difficult for young children. We encourage each parent or guardian to research the opera you are planning to attend before deciding to bring children. If you have a question or concern, don’t hesitate to give us a call before purchasing a ticket.
It’s typical for audiences to clap at the end of a big virtuosic aria (a self-contained song for one voice) or other recognizable musical numbers. Of course, if you enjoyed the production, clapping at the end and shouting Bravo! (male characters), Brava! (female characters) or Bravi! (whole ensembles) is welcomed and encouraged.
Unfortunately, single tickets are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another show, unless the show gets cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. In that case, we’ll contact all ticket buyers to inform them of their options.
However, SUBSCRIBERS may exchange their tickets for any other show during the same season. Exchanges are based on availability and the same seats may not be guaranteed but we’ll make every effort to honor your request. To exchange your tickets, please contact Opera Roanoke at (540) 982-2742.
If you are unable to exchange your tickets for a suitable date, you may return your tickets to Opera Roanoke for a tax credit receipt for the value of the tickets.
If you’ve lost your tickets, don’t worry! The box office can reprint lost tickets at any time. Contact us as soon as you realize you’ve lost them, and we’ll send you new tickets.
Opera Roanoke offers discounts of up to 30% off, depending on the size of your group. Contact the Opera Roanoke Box Office to inquire about bringing a group to the opera. The more people you bring, the more you save!
Most Opera Roanoke performances are held at the Jefferson Center but occasionally, we use different venues. Venue information will be listed on show-specific pages.
The Jefferson Center is located at 541 Luck Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24016.
Parking is conveniently located directly across from the Jefferson Center. We recommend arriving at least 20 minutes prior to showtime to ensure you have time to park, pick up tickets at will-call, grab a drink, and use the restroom.
Yes, the venue has an elevator and is fully handicap accessible. Please contact Opera Roanoke for further questions about accessibility.
Opera Roanoke
20 Church Avenue Southeast, 3rd Floor, Roanoke, Virginia 24011, United States
Copyright © 2024 Opera Roanoke - All Rights Reserved.
Photo Courtesy of Dongsoo Choi
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