As you know, I love the outdoors. Wherever I go I spend a lot of time hiking, climbing and finding different and exciting ways to propel myself through the every changing landscape of the countries I visit, but every now and again I like to change things up a bit and experience city life, to see the sights and soak up some culture.
If you ever find yourself in Rome doing the same, I recommend taking in an Opera. Don’t worry if you have never been before you will enjoy the spectacle and it will be a special and memorable experience.
Where to go:
There are three main opera venues in Rome. They are:
The Teatro dell Opera
The biggest and most well known is the Teatro dell Opera. This impressive venue, which is located in the historic centre of Rome, opened in the late 1800s. It is decorated in a Liberty style, which makes just entering the building a pleasurable experience. Most of the operas performed here are classic operas performed in a traditional way.
The ruins of the Baths of Caracalla
In the summer the opera company, that performs in the Teatro dell Opera moves to the ruins of the Baths of Caracella. If you are looking for a unique way to experience opera this is definitely it. There really is nothing quite like this evocative venue for experiencing a classic opera like Tosca, La Boheme or Madama Butterfly .
The Teatro Piccola Lirica
If you are looking for a different experience, not necessarily a classic opera, the Teatro Flaiaio Piccola Lirica is a great option. This company reworks classical pieces into a 90-minute format.
It is where many young and up and coming performers begin their operatic careers in Rome. The use of modern technology, fresh talent and reworking the piece for a modern audience means that when you attend an opera at Piccola Lirica you always experience something unique.
Smaller venues
There are also performances of operatic works at the Sant’Agnese in Agone in Piazza Navona and the magnificent church of St. Paul’s Within the Walls. Most of these performances are not full operas, but they are a good way to experience all of your favourite arias.
Some restaurants offer opera and taster evenings. These combine opera singing with fine food and dining.
Buying the tickets
Buying opera tickets in Rome is not hard especially if you have a few words of Italian. However, the popular operas sell out fast. In addition, if you buy your tickets direct, you will usually have to pay full price for them.
Booking your tickets online is often the best way to go. It makes it easy to book in advance and you can shop around for the best deals.
Dinner and Opera
Some of the best deals are to be found as part of dinner and opera packages. Specialist online ticket agents offer you the best opera tickets often with a beautiful meal included at great prices.
So, if you are going to Rome my advice is to treat yourself to something a little different and take in an opera.