Etiquette

When Should I Arrive?

Generally, arriving 30 minutes prior to curtain is appropriate.

What if I Want to Buy Tickets?

If so, you will need to allow yourself more time. Latecomers to a performance are not seated until the first break, which occasionally means the first intermission. If you're late, therefore, you may miss a third of a three-act opera or half of a two-act one. Our best advice is simple: be on time.

Should I Attend The Opera Preview?

Yes, if you are interested in acquiring greater insight into the story and history of the opera and its composer. Previews are entertaining as well as informative. The free Previews are presented by the Lyric Opera Guild one hour before curtain in the theatre.

What Should I Wear?

Actually, there is no required "dress code" for the opera. Patrons are free to choose whatever best "suits" them, so to speak. Some dress for a formal occasion, while others prefer to remain casual.

Where Should I Park?

You may park on the streets or there are several lots, which charge a fee, within a block of the Lyric Theatre. Parking within the 10 Central Car Park, located on 10th Street between Broadway and Central, ranges from $3-$5. To see a detailed parking map of Downtown Kansas City, check out our parking section. For the latest updates regarding downtown construction, click here.

When Should I Clap?

Knowing when to clap is also important. This may sound simple but it isn't always easy. Some operas, such as those by most of the Italian composers like Verdi and Puccini are written with natural "breaks" after the big arias. Applause at these "breaks" is appropriate and expected. You'll even find the audience shouting its approval with a Bravo! or Brava! at a particularly fine aria. Other operas, however, are intentionally composed without such "breaks" because the composer didn't want the music interrupted by applause. So how do you know when to clap? If you can see the conductor, wait until he or she puts down the baton. If the conductor is still holding up the baton the chances are that the music will continue and should not be interrupted. Wait to see what the more experienced audience members do and follow suit. The members of the orchestra are an important part of the performance and they deserve recognition. Often, when the conductor appears before the last act he or she will gesture to the orchestra and invite the audience to applaud. This is your chance to show your appreciation for the musicians in the pit.

Are All Operas In A Foreign Language?

For the 2007-2008 season, all productions will be performed in the original language with easy-to-read electronic translations above the stage.

Aida will be sung in Italian, The Pearl Fishers in French, The Magic Flute in German and the World Premiere opera, John Brown, in English.

How Can I Buy Tickets?

  1. Buy season or single tickets online
  2. Contact the Lyric Opera Ticket Office at (816) 471-7344
  3. Send a fax to (816) 471-0619
  4. Print and mail/fax our order form
  5. Visit the Lyric Opera Ticket Office in the Lyric Theatre at 11th and Central, Monday through Friday from 10am-5pm