OPERA 101
Too often, opera is viewed as elitist. But did you know the world's most famous operas were written for the masses?
Look at the story lines and it's easy to see - man falls for woman, woman makes man jealous, man murders other man (often rather violently), you get the gist - not that different from today's television dramas or blockbuster movies.
Opera is simply the same types of stories, told through song. With spectacular staging, elaborate costuming, and soaring orchestral and vocal performances, it may well be that no other art rises to such a level in portraying the sheer power - and extreme frailty - of human emotion.
The most famous operas were written in Europe and are sung in Italian, French or German. But believe us when we say You Will Get the Story. A plot summary is provided in the playbill, and because the story is acted - albeit without spoken words - you will be spellbound as the story unfolds.
OPERA ETIQUETTE
If you're new to the opera or just need a little refresher, we've put together this slim primer of general information to help improve your enjoyment and understanding of our performances.
The Palmetto Opera does not adhere to a specific dress code. 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.
Golden Rules
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Go easy on the atomizer; many people are highly allergic to perfume and cologne.
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If you bring a child, make sure etiquette is part of the experience. Children love learning new things.
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Unwrap all candies and cough drops before the curtain goes up or the concert begins.
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Make sure all cell phones, beepers and signal watches are OFF. And don't jangle the bangles.
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The overture is part of the performance. Please cease talking at this point.
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Note to lovebirds: When you lean your head together, you block the view of the person behind you.
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THOU SHALT NOT TALK, or hum, or sing along, or beat time with a body part.
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Force yourself to wait for a pause or intermission before rifling through a purse, backpack or shopping bag.
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Yes, the parking lot gets busy and public transportation is tricky, but leaving while the show is in progress is discourteous.
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The old standby: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.