Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I park?
Parking in downtown Sarasota can be a challenge. There is a public parking garage behind the Opera House, as well as other garages within a short walk. We also offer valet service at most performances (it is complimentary for subscribers and donors). Please see the 'Parking' page for more detailed information.
How should I dress for the Opera?
Whether you prefer casual or formal attire, dress comfortably and be yourself. Because of the historic nature of the theater, it is sometimes difficult to regulate the temperature of the auditorium. We recommend bringing a wrap or sweater in case the theater temperature is a little cool.
What if I don't speak the language of the opera?
Real-time English translations are above the stage providing immediate understanding of what is happening, helping you to experience the excitement of the performance no matter what the language.
What if I arrive late?
It is difficult and sometimes unsafe to seat patrons once the house lights have dimmed. Therefore we sometimes can't seat latecomers or those who exit the performance until an appropriate pause in the performance. Please double check the start time on your tickets.
Does the Opera offer tours?
Yes. Tours are at 10:30 every Monday during our fall and winter opera seasons.
Please visit Sarasota Opera House Tours for up to date information and tickets.
Are there talks or lectures to attend?
Yes, there are free pre-show introductions 45 minutes before some performances.
Tips for an enjoyable experience at the Opera.
To help ensure an enjoyable experience for yourself and other patrons, we asked that you be aware of the following:
- The use of cameras, recording devices and cell phones is prohibited during performances. Please turn off all electronic communication devices. This includes wristwatch alarms, cell phones and beepers for the duration of the performance.
- It is difficult and sometimes unsafe to seat patrons once the house lights have been lowered. Latecomers and those who exit during performances will be seated at the first safe opportunity.
- Out of respect for performers and other audience members, we ask you not to talk during the performance. Please wait until intermission to discuss the show.
- Please unwrap candies or lozenges before the opera begins. Your fellow opera-goers tend to get very cranky if you make noise during the performance.
- Supertitles, the Hearing Loop, and hearing devices are provided as free services and no refunds will be made for any malfunctions.
- Food and beverages are not permitted inside the auditorium.
- Smoking is not permitted in any of the Sarasota Opera House buildings or in the Donna Wolf Steigerwaldt Courtyard.
- Many opera-goers are allergic to strong fragrances. We ask you to be considerate of others when applying perfumes and colognes.
- If you have a complaint about another patron, please tell an usher rather than approaching the person yourself.
May I bring children?
We welcome fans of all ages, but you are the best judge of whether or not your child should come to the opera. Operas tend to run between 2 1/2 and 3 hours. We recommend a minimum age of 8 years for this reason. Please note: every patron, regardless of age, requires a ticket.
We also recommend that you read the synopsis of the opera to determine whether or not the content of a particular work is suitable for the age of your child.
What if I can't attend?
Please don't let your tickets go to waste—donate them to Sarasota Opera for resale! You will receive an acknowledgement for tax deduction purposes. Performance tickets must be received at the box office by mail or in person and may be donated up until 30 minutes before the performance.
Is the theater accessible?
The Sarasota Opera House is accessible to people with disabilities. Due to the historic nature of the building, only seats in the orchestra are accessible without having to negotiate steps. The theater is outfitted with Hearing Loop technology, and we provide assistive listening devices. Braille program materials are available but must be ordered at least one month in advance.
How may I donate to the Opera?
For information on way to give, please contact Sarasota Opera’s Development Department at 941-366-8450 ext. 250 or for more information please visit 'Make a Donation' page.
What if I lose my ticket?
Don't worry—simply contact the Box Office at 941-328-1300 and replacements will be waiting for you at Will Call or we can send you a mobile ticket.
Are there refunds?
Tickets are non-refundable.
How long is the opera?
Operas generally run approximately 3 hours, including intermissions. We will try to put timing estimates on our website, but due to the nature of live performance, those timings may change as we get closer to the performance. If you have given us your email address we will send a performance timing in a pre-performance email shortly before your performance. And you can always check our website for updated timings.
What if I still have questions?
Please contact Patron Services at 941-328-1300.