Opera might not immediately spring to mind when you’re planning family activities, but it can be a fantastic way to introduce your kids to classical music and theater. Many adults who assume they don’t like opera might have missed out on exposure to it as children. Taking your kids to the opera while they’re young could ignite a lifelong passion for music and culture in their hearts. However, without proper preparation, your opera outing could turn into a disaster. Here are some tips to ensure your kids have the best time possible:
Book Tickets in Advance:
It’s wise to book your opera tickets online and well in advance. Productions can be incredibly popular, and the last thing you want is for your kids to be disappointed because you couldn’t get tickets. Booking online can also minimize the amount of time you spend queuing. By purchasing tickets in advance, you’ll already have your seats, allowing you to bypass the line and enter the theater more quickly. Kids generally dislike waiting around with nothing to do, so streamlining your experience is essential for their enjoyment.
Choose Child-Friendly Productions:
Not all operas are suitable for children, as some may be too complex or dull for little ones to follow. It’s crucial to carefully select the production you plan to attend. Conduct some research online to identify operas that are best suited for children. You may also want to seek recommendations from friends and family who have taken their kids to see a show. Popular operas suitable for all ages include Mozart’s The Magic Flute, Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, and Donizetti’s La Fille du Regiment. If your children are very young, consider looking into operas specifically designed for children, which tend to be more accessible and shorter in duration.
Explain Opera at Home:
Before heading to the opera, take the time to explain to your children what they can expect to see. Without some prior knowledge, they may become confused and restless during the performance. While watching opera on TV or listening to it on the radio isn’t quite the same as experiencing it live, it can still provide a helpful introduction in a comfortable environment. This allows you to answer any questions and build excitement for the upcoming outing.
Dress Up:
Although dressing up is no longer a requirement for attending the opera, your children might enjoy the novelty of wearing fancy attire like sparkly dresses or bow ties. Dressing up, especially if it’s not something you typically do, can add to the sense of occasion and make the opera feel like a special, memorable event for your children.
The opera offers a remarkable experience for individuals of all ages, so why not bring your kids along next time? With a bit of planning and preparation, it can be an enriching and enjoyable outing for the whole family.
