Commonly recognized as one of the great achievements of Western Music, The Marriage of Figaro is admired by connoisseurs, musicians, and those new to the art form.

1. One of the supreme masterpieces of the genre - Mozart's timeless score, coupled with Da Ponte's witty libretto has made this one of the few operas to have maintained its place in the operatic repertoire.
2. The genius of W.A. Mozart - Despite the fact that he died when he was 35, Mozart was an extraordinarily prolific composer. His works span all genres including symphonies, piano works, concertos, chamber music, choral music, and opera. The complexity of his music belies its accessibility, which is why his operas are easy to enjoy but admired by musicians.
3. An important work in the extraordinary career of Lorenzo Da Ponte - Conversely Da Ponte led a long life (he died when he was 89). He was born to a Jewish family but converted to Catholicism and took minor orders. He was an academic, poet, librettist, playwright, and a grocer. One of his close friends was Casanova and like him indulged in romantic intrigues. His last years were spent in New York, where he taught Italian at Columbia College. He also produced some of the earliest opera performances including Don Giovanni.
4. A sequel - The Marriage of Figaro is based on the second of trio of plays centered around Figaro by French playwright Pierre Beaumarchais.  It takes place after the events of The Barber of Seville and can be considered its sequel.
5. Controversial subject - The Beaumarchais play, which premiered in 1778, was a clear denunciation of aristocratic privilege. Louis XVI demanded significant changes before he would allow its performance. The play was banned in Austria as well and the opera was permitted only after much persuasion by Da Ponte. Several leaders of the French Revolution, including Napoleon, claimed that the play helped further the revolutionary cause.
6. Recognizable music - The music for The Marriage of Figaro contains some of Mozart's most famous work. The overture is one of opera's greatest and a frequent concert selection. The Countess' aria "Dove sono" is often performed as is Figaro's aria "Non più andrai", Cherubino's "Voi che sapete", and Susanna's "Deh, vieni non tardar". The duet "Canzonetta sull'aria" for the Countess and Susanna was famously featured in the movie The Shawshank Redemption.

Seeing The Marriage of Figaro offers a perfect combination of beautiful music, engaging storytelling, and historical significance, making it a must-see for both opera lovers and newcomers alike.

The Marriage of Figaro is generally suitable for all audiences but does have some suggestions of extra-marital affairs. Parents may want to review the story before bringing young people to a performance.

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.