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What is the Etiquette for A Ballet Production in the Sydney Opera House? Attire?

woman; questioning 

Dear Polite One,

I have come across a difficult situation regarding my attire at an upcoming event and was hoping you could assist me in this matter.

I have been invited to attend a production of the Swan Lake Ballet at the Sydney Opera House held in the evening. My escort is a distinguished nobleman from a European country. He also happens to be my godfather.

This will be the first time that I have met him, and I am quite clueless as to how to proceed. From what I gather from talking to him on the phone and from my mother, he is certainly not of the snobbish upper-crust and is quite down to earth.

I am in my mid-twenties and a university student as well.

I would also appreciate any tips you could give me about etiquette for the ballet.

Thank you in advance regarding your advice. Have a great week!

Sincerely,

Clueless from Down Under

Dear Clueless from Down Under,

Usually, a young lady's appropriate attire for an evening ballet event is a smart casual dress with a quality coat or wrap.  Sydney seems to be label-conscious, so the dress should be in a current or classic style.  Your accessories should be of high quality.  

Because you are going to the Sydney Opera House, I contacted them to make sure I was giving you proper advice.

Steve From Sydney Opera House

"Hi there, the opera house doesn't have a dress policy or standard.,

anything you think is appropriate is fine.  Smart casual seems to be the norm.

Best, Steve"

Genuinely nice of them to be so helpful.  I would assume that smart casual in Australia means the same as most places: no semi-formal dress (cocktail dresses).  So, dress as you would to the nicest restaurant.

As for opera protocol, just remember basic courtesies like no noise like talking, singing along, or coughing, so take lozenges.  Also, no hats or a big hairstyle to obscure other's views, no strong perfume, and no cell phones.

More than likely your escort will guide you to proceed before him down the aisle to your seats; watch his body language.  Men usually sit on the aisle.

If you are in a boxed seat, ensure those around you can see as well as you. Wait until others are applauding, then join in.  Applause is withheld until the end of a complete dance or when a scene is over. You do not have to leave your seat during intermission even if your escort does.  If you do, please return before the ballet resumes.

Other than that, just enjoy yourself!  This is a huge opportunity. 

Sincerely,

The Polite One

More From The Polite One

Attire for NY Met Opera La Traviata?

Proper Formal Attire: Benefits, Ballet, and Glove Etiquette

New York City Ballet Nutcracker Attire?


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