Opera in Surrey

[vinteuil]

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... back in the 1970s and 1980s I used to go to the ROH Covent Garden regularly (I was in a position where I got freebies... ). I never wore dinner jackets, nor anything particularly formal, nor did many of the people around me - and these were in the stalls or other good seats. There were never any signs of disapproval.

Only very rarely am I forced to put on a dj (college reunions); it's not often nowadays that I find myself even needing to wear a tie.


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[Conchis]

At ROH, I've seen a sleeveless T shirt and Kilt - as it was being worn with conviction, I suppose it was a fashion statement. I don't suppose the ROH will be caught out giving the press a chance to run an "elitist" story by ejecting anyone as long as they maintain what presently passes for decency.
Glyndebourne - I got away (meaning I didn't feel uncomfortable, socially, with a dark suit and bow tie for my first visit - then joined a chorus and had to have a DJ (then the chorus dropped them in favour of Black shirts). I hate wearing a tie - now I'm retired its weddings, Glyndebourne, Funerals and (should there be any) Court appearances.

I'm with you on ties - they are a stupid, meaningless affectation. At Grange Park on Thursday, I wore a bow tie, which actually felt more natural than an 'office-worker's' tie, though I can't say it's something i relished wearing.

[Lat-Literal]

I enjoyed Thursday's Walkure premiere, although some may feel that Stephen Medcalf's high concept production goes too far (he makes it very period specific and creates his own very interesting sub-plot to the main action): certainly the reviews I've read seem to concentrate on that, rather than the singing which was of a very high standard throughout. And quite an achievement to have got the building up and running a mere eleven months after construction began!

Conchis,

I am pleased that you enjoyed Walkure and was interested to read your comments. Good luck with the main review.

Generally,

It is also interesting to see the various additional comments on dress. I don't think I have ever worn a tuxedo and a bow tie and am beginning to wonder if that is a little unusual given a university background etc. It is only one part of my conundrum and not necessarily the biggest one but I do go back to all the talk about why there isn't more access to classical music. I can't emphasize enough that a key barrier can and may often be there. If I see it as something of a barrier then many who are only starting to recognise some of the music must do.

[David-G]

The last post and parts of the previous one are very funny for which thanks. Generally chavs seem to see me as one of their kind but substantially inferior until I open my mouth. Then they tend to go off in a huff or run for the hills. It's not the accent - very mid range almost as to be classless in the proper sense - but the content which while hardly highbrow is far more rangy than they anticipate or are willing to endure. I am more than capable of being in a suit and an ordinary tie with decent shoes if necessary. But if that is seen as rebellion at opera then I don't like that idea because I want to blend in if I can. There are no negative agendas other than feeling I would be seen as having them. I will have a look at Longborough.

"Black tie" is not necessary at Glyndebourne, though most men wear it (or something like it). But a few don't and they are not out of place. If I might make a suggestion - wear an ordinary suit but with a bow tie. It gives just the stylish feeling which is encouraged. I have done that many times at Glyndebourne and don't feel at all "out of place".

[Lat-Literal]

"Black tie" is not necessary at Glyndebourne, though most men wear it (or something like it). But a few don't and they are not out of place. If I might make a suggestion - wear an ordinary suit but with a bow tie. It gives just the stylish feeling which is encouraged. I have done that many times at Glyndebourne and don't feel at all "out of place".

That is very helpful David-G. Thank you. I sense that it is back to the Glyndebourne site and then the small matters of price, public transport and any afternoon performances? Grrrr!

[David-G]

That is very helpful David-G. Thank you. I sense that it is back to the Glyndebourne site and then the small matters of price, public transport and any afternoon performances? Grrrr!

My suggestion was meant for Grange Park Opera at West Horsley also.

[Lat-Literal]

My suggestion was meant for Grange Park Opera at West Horsley also.

Many thanks DG - again very helpful.

[David-G]

The Grange Park Opera season at West Horsley is now finished for this year. Having gone to a few of the performances, I can report that you could wear whatever you like that is reasonably smart and not feel out of place. Maybe give next season a try.

[Lat-Literal]

The Grange Park Opera season at West Horsley is now finished for this year. Having gone to a few of the performances, I can report that you could wear whatever you like that is reasonably smart and not feel out of place. Maybe give next season a try.

That's great, thank you.

All things being well, I will do David-G and I am very pleased that you enjoyed the season.

I also looked at Glyndebourne - next season's operas appeal more than this season's operas there.

But I reckon it would be West Horsley as long as a few other hurdles can be overcome.