Now That You're an Adult, Head to the Theater! An Introduction to Enjoying Opera

Don't you feel like opera is a bit intimidating?

But don't worry!

As an adult with life experience, you can draw on your past to fully enjoy opera.

So, here are some tips for you, the sophisticated woman, on how to enjoy opera!

1. Go with a friend!

If you're feeling anxious because it's your first time, we recommend going with a friend!
By sharing your thoughts and helping each other understand parts you might have missed, you can enjoy the opera even more.

▶︎What kind of opera should I choose?

Consult with your friend and choose a work based on a theme, composer, or singer that interests you.

Work is a good way to choose, or you could choose by singer.
Knowing someone performing might also be a great way to make opera feel more accessible.

A popular production! How about this one?

The "Drinking Song" from Verdi's opera La Traviata (from a Metropolitan Opera performance)

▶︎Isn't opera long and tiring?

There are intermissions, so you don't need to worry. Also, if you're with a friend, you can chat about your impressions or enjoy a light snack during the break.

2. Prepare for your opera experience!

Researching the story and characters in advance will help you understand it more deeply.
Try looking for synopses or guidebooks on the internet or at the library.

This is an opera primer by Riyoko Ikeda, a manga artist who went on to study at a music college and became a soprano singer.

I've looked for highly-rated guidebooks for beginners.

We recommend dressing up a little more formally than usual.

Wear a dress, a blouse with a skirt, or a stylish pair of pants to elevate your mood.

When going to see an opera performed on a large stage, having binoculars will help you see the expressions and subtle movements on stage clearly.
Bring your own or rent them at the theater.

They can be purchased for around 2,000 yen, so it might be worth owning a pair.

3. Enjoy the opera!

For first-timers, we recommend choosing a performance with subtitles or one performed in Japanese.

It's easier to understand the story when it's in Japanese, isn't it?
Listen closely to the singers' voices and try to immerse yourself in the story.

The opera stage is expressed through song and music. You can experience the feeling of being captivated by the singing voices and drawn into the story.

During the intermission, talk about your impressions with your friends.

"That scene was so moving, wasn't it!"
"That singer's voice was wonderful, wasn't it!"

Sharing your thoughts with friends like this will help you enjoy the opera even more.

4. Keep enjoying it even after the opera!

After watching the opera, it is also recommended to have a meal with your friends at a cafe or restaurant.
While soaking in the lingering emotions of the opera, you can discuss your thoughts or make plans for the future.

Try reading books about opera or listening to the music to immerse yourself even further into the world of opera.

The world of opera is profound, and the more you know, the more interesting it becomes.

Conclusion

Opera is a wonderful art form that deepens life experience and enriches the heart.

Going to the theater alone to immerse yourself in the story without reservation is one way to enjoy it, but going with friends will make it an even more fun and memorable experience.

Please, gather your courage and take a step into the world of opera!

If you'd like, please take a look at these articles as well!

You can read articles in the same category from this magazine✨

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