1.No dress-code

Although the stairs are covered in red carpet, there’s no need to come to the Opéra as if you were going to the Cannes Film Festival! Casual, stylish, incredible… any look will do.  

 

2. The good timing

It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the performance. This is so that the 1,000 people who come to see the show can go through the cloakroom (free) and find their seats with the help of the reception staff stationed on each floor. They can also browse the programme (also free) or go to the 3rd floor for a brief introduction to the piece by a lecturer. Or simply admire the sublime architecture of the auditorium or the Foyer (2nd floor).Please be punctual, as the show always starts on time… and once the performance has started, it’s impossible to step over the other spectators to get to your seat. You will be placed in a side box until the interval. So beware of parking problems and traffic jams.

 

3. Stop the cravings

Whether at home or in a restaurant near the Opéra, there’s nothing like having eaten before coming to the Opéra. Unlike some cinemas, you can’t eat or drink in the theatre so as not to disturb the other spectators or damage the auditorium (it is a listed heritage site after all!)

 

 

However, during the interval, 2 bars are open (on the 2nd and 4th floors). It’s also possible to get out of the Opera… but in 20 minutes, it’s hard to get a bite to eat. When the bell rings, it’s time to return to your seat.

4. Airplanemode

Take a quick selfie in the auditorium before the show starts, then activate aeroplane mode before putting your phone away in a bag or pocket. You’ll have to wait until the interval or the end of the show to consult it again.🔥😱💪

Even if it’s not noisy, the brightness of the screen disturbs other viewers.

5. Shush 🤫

Although it’s very tempting to comment on what you’re seeing and hearing, you have to wait until the break to do so! A simple whisper during another spectator’s favourite tune can spoil all the fun. What’s more, constantly leaning towards the person next to you to talk to them interferes with the visibility of the people sitting behind you. So, as a courtesy to everyone, silence is essential in the auditorium.

It’s also difficult to get out of the auditorium unseen. So, except in emergencies, you have to wait until the interval to leave your seat.

6. Polyglot only ?

Of course not! 7 surtitling screens project the text of the opera (in French, Dutch, German and English).

However, it is advisable to familiarise yourself with the story and characters of the show in question in order to get the most out of your visit to the Opéra. On our website, you will find a spectator’s booklet (usually online 2 weeks before the performance) which offers a whole series of keys to understanding the show.

On that note, we look forward to welcoming you to the Opéra in the near future and hope that it will be a magical and unforgettable experience!