Plan Your Night
How to get here
With the anticipation of a busier uptown, we are committed to making it easy for you to attend the opera. Please click here for directions and instructions about where to park. $5 preferred parking passes can be purchased in the theater lobbies before and after each opera.
Five-star dining with Opera Carolina
Join us for a pre-performance dinner exquisitely prepared by Blue Restaurant & Bar and a special preview of the opera. A subscriber-only benefit. To learn more about becoming a subscriber now benefits, click here.
Also check the Events Calendar for special dining packages.
Uptown Restaurants & Featured Promotions
Click here for a listing of restaurants and promotion dates. All offers are subject to availability. This listing is not all inclusive and is not meant to be an endorsement by Opera Carolina but a helpful reference guide.
Accommodations
All offers are subject to availability.
The Dunhill Hotel
237 N Tryon Street
704.332.4141
Take advantage of the "Performing Arts" package and stay in Charlotte's only historic hotel after the opera! Packages start at only $159 and includes dinner for two at Monticello Restaurant and a one-night stay. For more details or to make your reservations, click here.
If you have further questions or would like to make your reservation by phone, call 704.332.4141 and ask about the "Performing Arts" package.
Etiquette FAQ
What should I wear to the opera?
The opera is a special place where you can really dress up and go glamorous, if you want! You will see everything from formal wear, cocktail dress to pant suits, tuxes to business suits for evening performances. Sunday matinees you generally see more casual sport jackets and dresses. Your opera experience is what you make of itâ Opera is for everyone!
How will I understand what people are singing?
English translations of the lyrics (titles) are projected on a screen above the stage as they are sung. Also a full synopsis of the opera is provided online and in the evening's program.
Can I bring children?
Opera Carolina encourages children ages 6 or older to attend performances. Beyond that, it is every parentâ responsibility to decide whether his or her child is of an age to appreciate the performance. When bringing a child to the opera, it is helpful to explain the story in advance and instruct them on proper audience behavior. If you want to expose your school-aged child to the world of opera, we strongly suggest you look into our extensive Education & Outreach programs which are geared to children of different ages.
How long does the opera last?
Running times vary per opera, but most run approximately 2 and 1/2 to 3 hours in length, like most Broadway musicals. Please call Opera Carolina at 704.332.7177 for a specific opera, run time.
Is there an intermission?
Yes. Opera Carolina has two intermissions for most three-act operas, and a single intermission for two-act operas.
What if I'm late?
Opera Carolina has a late seating policy. Latecomers will not be admitted to the theater until intermission or on rare occasions when the conductor has designated an appropriate interval for seating. Opera Carolina will have television monitors on each level of the lobby with a live feed of the performance that patrons can view until seated. Please note that Opera Carolina makes every effort to start each opera at the published start time.
When should I clap?
At the end of big arias and, of course, at the final curtain calls. Feel free to shout out "Bravo!" (for a male performer), "Brava!" (for a female performer) or "Bravi!" (for an ensemble), singers love an appreciative audience!
Anything else I should know?
Please remain quiet from the time the orchestra begins to play so that everyone around you can enjoy the music. Please do not open candy or gum wrappers, talk to your neighbor, or use your cell phone/pager during the performance. Be sure to turn off your pager, watch alarm and phone when you enter the theater. Please do not sing along, tap in time, get up and move around or try to read your program while the performance is in progress, it is distracting to the people around you.








