The Barber of Seville is probably the most beloved comic opera and one of the most frequently performed works by opera companies worldwide. Here are several reasons why you might want to see it:

1. Timeless Humor: The opera is a comic masterpiece filled with wit, slapstick humor, and clever dialogue. Its comedic elements are timeless and continue to entertain audiences of all ages.

2. Memorable Music: Rossini's score is packed with memorable melodies and energetic, engaging music. The overture is particularly famous and has been used in various films, cartoons, and commercials. Warner Brothers famously used it as the soundtrack for a Bugs Bunny cartoon entitled The Rabbit of Seville.

3. Iconic Characters: The characters in The Barber of Seville have achieved legendary status.  The famous barber of the title "Figaro" is one of opera's most clever inventions and his entrance aria "Largo al factotum della città" is immediately recognizable. Rosina, the heroine of the piece has another notable entrance song "Una voce poco fa" and the multiple disguises of Count Almaviva create some of the most hilarious situations in opera. 

4. Engaging Plot: The story revolves around the efforts of Count Almaviva to win the love of Rosina, with the help of the resourceful Figaro, while thwarting the plans of her guardian, Dr. Bartolo. The plot is full of twists, disguises, and humorous situations that keep the audience entertained from start to finish.

5. Famous Fiasco: The first performance of The Barber of Seville was famously a disaster. Legend has it that here were a number of onstage mishaps during the performance. But the main reason for its cool reception was that admirers of the composer Giovanni Paisiello, whose version of The Barber of Seville was still very popular, were incensed by Rossini's temerity in setting the same subject and turned out en masse to boo and heckle the piece to make sure that it was a failure. After the first night, however, audiences immediately saw its appeal and it has been part of the repertoire ever since.

Seeing a live performance of "The Barber of Seville" allows you to experience the full impact of Rossini's genius and the vibrant energy of one of opera's most enduring works.

The Barber of Seville is suitable for all ages. The comic situations make it accessible to all.

You are encouraged to dress in whatever way you feel most comfortable. Some people like to make it special by dressing up. Others prefer to be more casual. Opening nights of each opera tend to be a bit more dressy (you will see more tuxes and long dresses) and matinees a bit more casual.  

One suggestion: it does tend to be cool in the theater (especially in the orchestra section) and so a sweater or wrap might be helpful.

There is limited on-street parking near the Sarasota Opera House. There are several parking garages in close proximity to the theater, including the Palm Avenue Garage (1289 N. Palm Ave.) which is directly behind the Sarasota Opera House.

Valet parking is also available for all evening and weekend matinee performances. Valet parking is complimentary for subscribers and donors. Otherwise the cost is $10.

For more information please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/parking.

The historic Sarasota Opera House is in downtown Sarasota at 61 N. Pineapple Street. 

For detailed directions, please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/directions.

There are concessions at the Opera House which sell a variety of beverages, snacks, and sandwiches.  The lobby and courtyard are open 1 hour and 15 minutes before a performance and we encourage you to come early to enjoy some refreshments. No food or drink are allowed inside the auditorium.