People going to the opera—especially those going for the first time—often have questions about the details of the experience. Here are a few answers to the most often asked questions. 

VENUE

All of Portland Opera's performances are staged at the Keller Auditorium, with the exception our spring chamber opera, which is held at the Newmark Theatre.

PROJECTED TRANSLATIONS

Every Portland Opera production features projected English translations.

In 1984, Portland Opera was one of the first companies to pioneer the use of one of the most important opera innovations in history—supertitles. With these quick and easy translations projected above the stage, you'll never miss a minute of the action, or any of the jokes.

POST-SHOW Q & A

After each performance, join General Director Christopher Mattaliano for "Back Talk," a Q&A session about the performance.  Guests include performers, conductors and directors.
Orchestra Level

PRE-CURTAIN TALKS

Before each performance, join us for "Opera Insights" – engaging pre-curtain music and history talks with Bob Kingston, Portland Opera's Resident Historian and Lecturer. 
One hour before each performance.  First Balcony Level Seating Area.

CHILDREN 

We encourage you to gauge your child's level of comfort with sitting quietly and considerately through a production. Keep in mind that productions can vary in length anywhere from two to three hours and often deal with mature themes. You know your child best!  All patrons, including children, must be ticketed for the performance.

WHAT TO WEAR ... WHAT TO WEAR

For many, nights at the opera provide the chance to don tuxedos and gowns. For others, it's suits and dresses. But you'll also find a few who prefer something a bit more casual. Suit yourself on this one!
 

WHAT TIME TO ARRIVE

Portland Opera performances begin at 7:30pm sharp for evening performances and 2:00pm for Sunday matinees. Out of respect for the performers and for patrons who have arrived on time, latecomers (as well as people leaving the seating area during the performance) are seated only at intermission. It is wise to allow a little extra time for the many things you can't control, like traffic.

FRAGRANCES

As a courtesy to others who are sitting only inches away (and who may be allergic to fragrances), it's always a good idea to use fragrances sparingly.

HI-TECH GADGETRY

Out of respect for the performers and fellow patrons, please silence personal phones and electronic devices. These items can also be checked at the Coat Room, where you may notify the attendant of your seat location in the event of an emergency. Cameras and recording devices are strictly prohibited.

SPECIAL OFFERS FOR SUBSCRIBERS

A night out at the opera is a very special event. To make your evening even better, we've partnered with some of the area's favorite restaurants and hotels to provide Portland Opera subscribers with some exclusive discounts. For specific offers, please refer to your season guide or watch for promotions in the OPERABuzz e-newsletter (Sign up here).

Restaurants

	Aquariva Italian Kitchen 0470 SW Hamilton Ct near Avalon Hotel & Spa 503-802-5850
	The Heathman Restaurant & Bar 1001 SW Broadway at Salmon 503-790-7752
	Jake's Grill 611 SW 10th Ave. 503-220-18
	London Grill 309 SW Broadway 503-295-4110
	Nel Centro 1408 SW 6th Ave adjacent to Hotel Modera 503-484-1099
	McCormick & Schmick's Harborside Restaurant 0309 SW Montgomery 503-220-1865
	Nostrana 1401 SE Morrison St 503-234-2427
	Morton's, The Steakhouse 213 SW Clay 503-248-2100
	Pazzo Ristorante 627 SW Washington 503-228-1515
	Piazza Italia 1129 NW Johnson 503-478-0619
	Red Star Tavern & Roast House 503 SW Alder 503-222-0005
	RingSide Fish House Fox Tower-838 SW Park Ave. 503-227-3900
	Southpark Seafood Grill & Wine Bar 901 SW Salmon 503-326-1300

Hotels