Opera has been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. What began as a fascination during childhood gradually became a passion, and eventually, a true calling. Despite the voices telling me that art could not sustain a person, or that major opera houses such as the one in Paris were too far from my reach, I pursued it with determination and a little audacity—and I never looked back.
Most of my childhood friends didn’t share my enthusiasm, yet I often persuaded them to join me for performances. Time and again, the moment the lights dimmed and the orchestra began to play, they were swept away by the magic just as I had been. Opera has that power: to draw people in, regardless of background or familiarity. And now, I’d like to share with you eight compelling reasons to experience a night at the opera for yourself.
1. Opera brings together every form of art
A single evening at the opera combines music, theater, dance, poetry, architecture, and even visual design. It’s a true fusion of artistic expression, where sound, movement, and imagery work together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
2. It awakens timeless emotions
Opera has always spoken to universal human feelings—love, betrayal, joy, despair. Whether performed in a grand court centuries ago or on a modern stage today, the emotions remain unchanged. What makes opera special is its ability to connect with everyone, regardless of age or cultural background.
3. Familiar works feel new every time
Even if you return to the same opera again and again, you’ll never see it the same way twice. Different directors, conductors, and performers bring their own interpretations, adding fresh layers of meaning. I’ve seen countless productions of Don Giovanni and Tosca, and each one revealed something unexpected, making the experience endlessly fascinating.
4. It offers an escape from daily life
An opera performance is alive—shared by the cast, orchestra, and audience in real time. In those hours, everyday concerns fade away as you become part of the story unfolding on stage. Whether you laugh at Mozart’s wit or are moved to tears by Puccini, the stage becomes a world apart from ordinary reality.
5. A chance to express yourself—or dress up
For some, a night at the opera is the perfect opportunity to wear elegant evening clothes that rarely leave the wardrobe. For others, it’s about feeling comfortable in casual attire. There’s no strict rule: it’s about being yourself. Personally, I love the excuse to wear bold dresses and sparkling jewelry—it balances out the hiking boots I wear on less glamorous days.
6. Discovering breathtaking theaters
Opera houses themselves are often works of art. From gilded ceilings and marble staircases to contemporary concert halls, they are spaces designed to inspire awe. Attending a performance allows you to appreciate not just the music, but also the beauty of these cultural landmarks.
7. Opera is part of our shared history
Opera has woven itself into everyday culture in ways we often overlook. Familiar arias and overtures appear in films, commercials, and even pop music. We recognize them instinctively, whether or not we know their origins. Opera is a living connection to our cultural heritage, one too valuable to be forgotten.
8. Opera takes you places
Opera lovers often find themselves traveling, as performances are staged in some of the world’s most remarkable locations. From historic capitals to coastal festivals, it’s an art form that doubles as an invitation to explore new destinations.
Breaking the myths
If you’ve never attended an opera, it might be because you think it’s too expensive or too difficult to understand. In reality, tickets can fit a wide range of budgets, with many theaters offering discounts for students, seniors, and last-minute buyers. And as for accessibility, nothing compares to the energy of a live performance—what may feel distant on a TV screen becomes powerful and unforgettable in person.
Opera is not reserved for experts; it’s for anyone willing to step inside the theater and let the music work its magic. I’ve introduced countless friends to their very first opera, and not one has walked away unmoved. Perhaps it’s time for you to discover it, too.
