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
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