Opera Etiquette

The Opera Company of Philadelphia does not adhere to a specific dress code other than requiring that you be fully clothed including shoes. Some patrons prefer to take advantage of the opera experience in formal dress, others come in business attire, while some prefer the comfort of jeans. We believe the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and enjoy the production.

These 'Golden Rules' originally appeared in Stagebill (displayed here with permission):

• Go easy on the atomizer; many people are highly allergic to perfume and cologne.
• If you bring a child, make sure etiquette is part of the experience. Children love learning new things.
• Unwrap all candies and cough drops before the curtain goes up or the concert begins.
• Make sure all cell phones, beepers and signal watches are OFF. And don't jangle the bangles.
• The overture is part of the performance. Please cease talking at this point.
• Note to lovebirds: When you lean your head together, you block the view of the person behind you.
• THOU SHALT NOT TALK, or hum, or sing along, or beat time with a body part.
• Force yourself to wait for a pause or intermission before rifling through a purse, backpack or shopping bag.
• Yes, the parking lot gets busy and public transportation is tricky, but leaving while the show is in progress is discourteous.
• The old standby: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.