OperaFAQ's

What should I wear?

You will see a variety of attire at an opera performance, and we want you to feel comfortable spending your evening with us. Some may choose to make a special occasion out of the evening by wearing that fancy cocktail dress or formal attire, but you'll see the majority of our audience members wearing professional attire, and occasionally jeans.

Are all Opera's in Italian?

Since opera was invented in Italy, most operas were written in Italian- even if the composer was from another country and spoke a different language. After many years of this tradition, things changed. Now we have operas in several languages; French, German, English… even Russian!

Will I be able to understand and follow the story?

Most operas are sung in their original language, which could be Italian, French, English, or even German. But don’t worry! If you go to Nashville Opera, all performances have super titles clearly projected above the stage and can be read from every seat in the house. Every line of an opera is projected above the stage in English onto the screen simultaneously with the singer.

Can I applaud or laugh as the story inspires me to?

The audience is the most important participant in any live production! One of the most exciting aspects of attending an opera is the interactive relationship between the audience and the performers. Just remember to be respectful, yet remember that it’s okay to respond to the performers. You can laugh or applaud at the end of a song, after a scene, and at the very end of the opera. Enjoy yourself and the show!

What happens if I am late?

Late seating will be determined by management and allowed at an appropriate time to prevent disrupting the show for others. On occasion latecomers may be seated at the rear left of the main floor until an appropriate point in the opera, then ushered to their seats. Call 615/ 832-5242 for the information on a particular performance’s policy.

Do I bring the kids?

Young children probably won’t enjoy an opera because they have to sit still and quiet for so long. However, older children might enjoy opera- check out the plot and decide whether to bring your older children. Our suggestion for this season? Amahl and the Night Visitors is perfect for the whole family! It’s a one-act, 45 minute opera which we will present with an Operatic Holiday Concert!

When should I arrive?

It is best to arrive 30- 45 minutes prior to the performance. This gives you plenty of time to find parking, get your tickets from will call if needed and locate your seats without feeling rushed. Opera Insights is offered an hour before curtain and is free for ticket holders!

Where are the performances?

All Nashville Opera performances are at The Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC). The Opera’s headquarters will be moving this fall to the Noah Liff Opera Center on Redmon Drive off of Murphy Avenue in the West End area.

Where can I park?

Public Square Garage, located on block east of TPAC, provides guaranteed, discounted parking for TPAC patrons. Enter the garage on Deaderick Street or Charlotte Avenue between 3rd and 4th Avenue. Visit the TPAC box office counter to obtain your discount. There is also $5 parking at City Center Garage directly behind TPAC on Union Street.

Do you have valet parking?

Valet parking is $18 for all ticketed events at TPAC. Valet parking often “fills up.” Arrive early to take advantage of the service.

Are there restaurants nearby?

Yes! The TPAC is located on Deaderick Street in Downtown Nashville, just blocks away from great restaurants. If you are an Opera Rewards Member you receive great deals at local restaurants that support the Opera!

How long do Opera's typically last?

It really depends on the performance. Typically opera’s tend to last between two to three hours including intermissions.

Can I bring my camera?

Photographs and audio visual equipment is strictly prohibited at all opera performances.

Are you a touring organization?

No, Nashville Opera is a professional opera company that operates in Nashville year-round on a full-time basis. Each opera is produced and rehearsed by the Nashville Opera, specifically for Nashville. This year the Opera is also expanding its range by making one of our four productions a regional tour of Menotti’s Amahl and the Night Visitors in early December.

Are you accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes. TPAC is accessible to people with disabilities and provides special services for people with special needs. Feel free to call 615/782-4087 to discuss your special needs in advance if your questions are not addressed here.

I lost an item while at a performance, is there a lost and found?

Yes. Call 615/782-4098. Leave your name, telephone number, and a detailed message about your item—when you lost it and what performance you were attending. Someone will look for the item and get back to you as soon as possible.

Do you sell food and beverages at the performances?

Yes. Prior to performances and during intermission, TPAC’s Center Landing Café sells coffee, water, soft drinks, desserts, and specialty items from their Tastes of Tennessee partners. Sandwiches are sold at Center Landing Café.

Do you sell liquor?

Yes. Wine, beer and mixed drinks are sold at TPAC Concessions prior to a performance and during intermission.

Can you eat and drink during a performance?

Bottled water is allowed in the theater during a performance. No other food or drink is permitted inside the theaters.