We just saw Il Travatoe at the McCaw and boy were we impressed. Granted the seats were amazing, we sat next to the director of the San Diego opera, we received free wine and cheese during intermission AND the tickets were free - the show was sick. I've been to the Met years ago and from what I recall, this most definitely is up there with any show in NYC. So how did we get free tickets and all this VIP treatment you ask? Look up Speight Jenkins - he's the best "in-flight" meeting I've ever had on a flight back from NY. Thank you JetBlue and don't fret, next time we're buying tickets and going back. Loved it. read more

I just finished seeing "La traviata" so... i'll put it out there, i'm not the biggest fan of opera. Has this show made me change my mind??? well let's say I went in thinking it'd be a 2/5 but ended up being 3/5. ANd to give you a back ground... I'm not an avid opera goer... nor am I the most astute listener of classical opera music, nor did I go with date... BUT having said all that I did enjoy watching this opera, mainly because I recognized alot of the music and people watching because alot of people were decked out in there evening gowns... tux... and regular suits. The average age of people there was about 47+ As for La Traviata, if you don't know about it, I'd suggest using wiki to quickly learn what the opera is about so you don't get too confused about what's going on. What to expect at the opera? Well 3 acts with 2 intersessions lasting about 20 minutes/intersession. Just enough time to get a drink and may be some food. They offer bionoculars for $5 a person with drivers licenes as collateral. i can't say bionoculars were actually really helpful or not to watch the show it. If your military you get a 25% discount on tickets (which is a good chunk you save). So want a different cultural experience and an excuse to dress up??? check out the opera because oepra season just started. But if you don't have too many saturdays free then do something else you know you'll enjoy and don't blame me. read more

La Traviata - 01/27/17 This is one of my favorite operas, but I won't likely be returning to see Seattle Opera perform it. Pros: Beautiful singing and an adequate, though somewhat shallow orchestra. The music is plain awesome. Cons: The set (a chair and pile of books) and costumes were non-existent--laughable considering that elaborate sets and costumes are the hallmark of great opera. I may as well have stayed at home and listened to my CD. They should have said "We fired all our set and costume staff", instead of saying it was a "modern interpretation". They abbreviated the story, made Alfredo's younger marriageable sister a child--who her father strikes, and made Alfredo a geeky bookworm--all misguided degenerations of the storyline. What made it more disappointing was that I brought four family members who haven't experienced much opera before--and now will not likely want to return. What a disappointment! read more

i love seattle opera. what a spectacular venue and as one of the best houses in the nation, it would be a travesty for you not to see one of the shows the opera house puts on. their sets are always fun and innovative. i have seen amany shows from various seats and they are always worth the ticket price. I highly recommend going for a bravo club package if you are under 39 years old. it gives you options to see all the season shows for like 50% off-that and free wine during reception. oh and there are special events just for bravo club members so you can mingle with other people who do the opera thing and fall into your generation category. all in all, it is a great way to spend a couple of nights getting some fantastic music and brilliant visuals (from sets to costumes to the actual venue) if you are around the seattle center area. hint-they do have cheaper options for you to see their single shows. pm me and i can relaly go into it for you! :) read more

We just saw the recent production of Madame Butterfly at Seattle Opera. Highlights were Yasko Sato as Madame Butterfly, the lighting and effects, and the sets. Mediocre were the male leads and the orchestra. A consistent problem at Seattle Opera is that the orchestra overwhelms vocalists who are not as strong as performers such as Yasko Sato. I don't always recommend productions at the Seattle Opera but the 2017 production of Madame Butterfly stands out as one of the best that I've attended recently. read more

My girlfriend has been working as a set painter for The Ring production and she was able to take me to the dress rehearsal for Das Rheingold last Saturday. It was pretty magnificent. I'd never been to the opera before, so it was a new experience for me. I loved it. read more

I wanted to only give Seattle Opera 3 stars because I've paid a lot of money to go to shows here over the years, and my experience was not as great as other places on several occasions -- however, I do love opera, and I think I may have finally figured out the "secret" to having a fantastic, 5-star experience at Seattle Opera, something I'd like to share with Yelpers today to help make your trip to the Seattle Opera a 5-star experience. Just went to see Lucia di Lammermoor on Saturday -- amazing and fantastic -- a 5-star experience - the best production that I have ever seen at Seattle Opera. A winner because they have lured someone here who will be a real star in opera one day -- lucky enough to find this talent early in her career. A feather in the cap of the Seattle Opera! Even people who don't know or don't like opera left the theatre saying they loved this show. That said, I have been to operas in Houston and the Met in NYC, and even in Central City, Colorado -- and I can say that in comparison to these markets, it does seem like something is a bit off in the Seattle Opera productions. I am truly not certain if it is in casting, or direction. It makes me wonder if Seattle is just not able to attract the right talent (other than Lucia of course, which was wonderful). I wonder if that show was directed by the same one who did some of the other shows I have seen here. Hmmm. For example, one particularly difficult show that I went to was the Seattle opera production of Julius Ceasar -- a nearly all-femaie cast, including the title role of Julius Ceasar being played by a woman. Needless to say, we felt confused by this for a few songs into the production. I am being gently educated now that this was a "trouser role," one in which the director can choose a female or only a male who can sing notes in the range that is required. Regardless if the gender choice for the lead was at fault, the casting was at fault or the lead role casting choice was just one of the choices I had problems with in this show -- it was a real loser. We giggled that a "bait and switch" had occurred on us because Seattle Opera neglected to highlight the fact that they had a female Ceasar and almost totally female cast in their advertising for the show. It's not so funny now, however, as I will pay for this for the rest of my life because my husband really doesn't want to go to Seattle opera anymore, after that debacle. Another issue for those of us who did not read the primer on opera is that it is also not advertised (prominently) that there is a "second cast" that plays on Friday and Sunday nights. Even the best operas are (usually) significantly worse on those nights. So, DO appreciate that Seattle has an opera -- a wonderful big-city offering that we can attend. DO appreciate McCaw Hall and the sets -- both very good for the experience. Read the casting carefully -- so you are not surprised and confused by "trouser roles." Do yourself a BIG favor, and generally (unless you hear reviews praising the silver cast) attend either on a Wednesday or a Saturday, when the "A" cast is on stage -- I finally learned after all these years about this trick! One final tip: if you are under 40, the BRAVO club will get you 1/2 price tickets to any opera and you will have the chance to meet other lovers of the arts/opera that you have something in common with -- and as a side note, at least half of them are single. read more

A great city deserves great cultural institutions. Seattle Opera is one of the shining gems in Seattle's crown. Speight Jenkins, General Director, has built Seattle Opera into a first class company that consistently produces great opera and features both known stars and up-and-coming stars. Never disappointed! Can't wait for the return of Wagner's Ring this year! read more

My family loves everything about Seattle Opera. It is not just a "show" - it's an experience. The location, McCall Hall is wonderful and I have yet to find a seat without great acoustics. The stage sets are absolutely amazing, and the costumes are opulent. The operas are performed in their original languages (at least all that I have attended). An English translation is presented on a screen above the opera. This would at first seem distracting, but they way that it is done, is not. It is a nice reference even if you have studied the opera or seen it before - there if and when you want it, but easily ignored if not. I know some say that it is not for children, but it depends on the kids. My 3 sons, ages 11-17 have attended the opera about 6 times now, and have thoroughly enjoyed it. (I go through the story with them beforehand, and try to find a few interesting parts of the music for them to listen for.) They do have to understand how unbelievably quiet it is during an opera - but then, some adults need this lesson as well... we have had one experience with a loud mouth breather in the row behind us, and another with someone with crinkly sounding wrappers to cough-drops or something of the like, and you would be surprised how well you can hear these things and how distracting they are. If you are going to want a drink during the intermission(s), (many operas have 2), you would be well-advised to order and pay for them beforehand. The lines get quite long very quickly, but if you order ahead of time, you will find your drinks waiting for you with a note with your name. Do not arrive late - for the start or from an intermission, as there is not admittance once they start (again, it's very distracting). You can dress however you like for Seattle Opera - you will see all levels of dress when you are there. Don't be surprised to have a person in a beautiful ball gown on one side of you and someone in jeans on the other. I would say most women are in cocktail dresses and most men are in a casual suit or sport coat. My kids usually wear a button-down shirt and slacks or jeans and seem to fit right in (I have had them wear suits before, but the shows are typically fairly long, and I have found that it's better to have them comfortable.) You can study the opera beforehand if you like, or just show up - but the Seattle Opera will have a synopsis, as will the program you get when you arrive. Their website will also have links about the cast, soundbites, even video. It's worth a look before you go. If you have never been to the opera - give it a try. My husband's mantra has always been "I hate musicals", but once I got him to the opera, he loved it. It's truly a feast for the eyes and ears - but also for the heart. You'd be surprised how emotional the singing and music can make you feel even when you don't know the words. I'm getting goosebumps right now just thinking about it. read more

So annoyed with how aggressive their marketing is. I went to one show, and started receiving weekly mailers and persistent telemarketing calls that didn't stop until I finally answered. At one point I emailed the PR department to let them know how invasive they were being, and told them to stop sending me mailers every week (I received no response, but they obviously got the message bc the mailers stopped). I finally blocked their number in my phone after I started getting phone calls again. read more

Mc Caw Hall is a theater goer's gem with great sight lines and decent acoustics throughout the house. Props to the designer and architect for this piece of working art. Staff are friendly, concessions reasonable, and facilities up to snuff. Thank you to everyone who contributes to keeping Opera part of the Seattle Arts Scene. read more

I just left Le Nozze, and I was not moved, as I should have been. I've seen this opera all over the world--and it holds a special place in my heart... The singers were all great, though, miscast... Susanna had a big, ol' spintoish type voice and the Countess had a delicate, almost soubrette type voice--this resulted in her not being heard during the larger ensembles... Again, beautiful voices, but poorly placed. Chemistry on stage was lacking... And some scenes seemed forced. I think the direction was translated awkward on stage and I blame it for the lackluster stage interactions. It seemed like Cherubino was the only person having fun (Cherubino stole the show, btw...)--she was amazing! The orchestra had a clean sound and the tempos were faster than usually performed (and rightfully so!). I'd go back again, but I wouldn't pay $80 for a seat. read more

Great venue. Really beautiful performance space. Drinks/snacks are way overpriced - but that's typical.

Last night I attended a performance of Der Fliegende Hollander (The Flying Dutchman). It was the fourth time I have seen this opera. This Seattle Opera version was stupendous. It was head and shoulders above a wonderful rendition put on in Chicago some years back and superior to an earlier version by Seattle Opera. It left a version I attended at the Sydney Opera House in the dust. That Sydney performance was memorable only for technical glitches. The voices and singing last night were glorious. The set and costume design were fantastic. Really what a performance. We are so fortunate, in Seattle, to have access to such high artistic opportunities. No matter where in the world you go, Seattle Opera can match the quality. Clearly, Aidan Lang, building on the shoulders of the great Speight Jenkins, is achieving significant things here. read more

Wow!!!!!!!! Seattle Opera scores another winner. Last night's production of Attila (Saturday, January, 21, 2012) was a treat to the ears and the eyes. The orchestra and conductor and all the performers were a delight as was the chorus, sets, photographic projections and costumes. I'm still having flashbacks. Speight Jenkins has an uncanny knack for pulling together great performers, directors, musicians, conductors, and crews to produce great opera time and time again. read more

We have had Seattle Opera season tickets for many years now - and for the money - it is the best ticket in town - better than any concert at the Coliseum/Key Arena, or the Mariners or the Seahawks combined - my complaint is the not the quality/professionalism of any the Seattle Opera company's performances - my 2 stars is for the the slovenly dress and appearence of the average Seattle Opera concert goer - in comparison - the fans of the Mariners and Seahawks and certainly the Coliseum/Key Arena attendee - dress to the nines compared to the average Seattle Opera patron - I am continually amazed at how poorly people dress at these things - and I am not aiming this complaint at the younger Seattle Opera concert goers either - but at the very people who shoud know better - our 'Seasoned Citizens' - the backbone and builders of this fine institution - here are but a few examples of what I have witnessed - I saw an elderly gentleman at 'ticket will call' - he looked as if he had just finished changing the oil and adjusting the timing belt in his car - he gave new meaning to the Dickens moniker of 'The Great Unwashed' - another woman looked as if she had just finished 'pickin in her patch' - dirty hands, knees and all - and the irony is - both of these people were seated in the Orchestra Section - and I am sure that they had more money than 'God' - neither could plead poverty - I write this small observation as a plea - rather than a critique - my humble entreaty/petition is to this 'Greatest Generation' - again please - lead by example - you should know better - bring back the age of refinement - because if you don't - who will? read more

Seattle Opera is an outstanding experience. All aspects from performers to sets and details are world class. The productions are elegant as well as eloquent. A great musical experience. read more

Seattle Opera is simply spectacular. The orchestra, staff, and especially the singers are outstanding. I have been a subscriber for over 10 years and even though not all the operas are of my taste, they have all been well performed and beautifully staged. The expanded use of lighting and projections really brings a modern feel to the operas that must be quite appealing to the younger generations of opera goers. Overall, Seattle Opera is world class and well worth the ticket price. read more

I attended Attila last night at Seattle Opera (Jan. 18). The house was not full-- we have all been battling a heavy snowfall here in Seattle. But those of us who attended are opera die-hards, and we were very happy. I was stunned-- the voices were amazing. John Relyea in the title role is a knock-out vocally--- and his acting was especially good during the scene where he's downstage front and on his knees, when figures from his present, past and future encircle him. Ana Lucrecia Garcia as Odabella blew me away with her range and fullness-- but her body body doesn't always respond to the emotions she's feeling (maybe some African/Brazilian dance classes would be good for personal development, etc.). Marco Vratogna as Ezio was pretty wonderful, and Antonello Palombi was also a knock-out, too, giving us lots of vocal color, diminuendos, etc. Other roles were good, too. The staging was great in places-- particularly in the prologue when civilians are executed by Attila's troops. The ending is a problem for any director because it comes up so fast, but it was a surprise, and works pretty well. The stage design works extremely well-- there is lots of video and image overlay on the sets. The costumes work very well. The music is a surprise-- lots of short dramatic and musical scenes-- but there are fragments of music that are so beautiful they take your breath away. The orchestra sounds great (whew, because the MET's orchestra is frequently a disappointment to me-- but then I'm extremely fussy about orchestras-- I want them to glean every bit of lyricism from the score). The chorus sounds good, but in a perfect world they would be a little more connected to what's happening on stage-- in other words, I'd like to hear a little more vocal energy (emotion). Bravo, Bravo, all of you who are involved. This production should really be filmed. Any ideas on how to do this fast, before the run ends? read more

I've been a season ticket holder for several years now, and generally purchase only the classics. Seattle Opera does a wonderful job with their productions - the sets are great, the music and singing easy to hear and understand, and the facility is top notch. I grew up with the Houston Grand Opera, probably second best in the country next to the Met, and Seattle doesn't lag terribly far behind. The best advice I can give for intermission is to pre-order your food and beverages, which saves a lot of waiting in line. The production of Lucia di Lammermoor a few years back was phenomenal - brought my daughter and me to tears! read more

Love it! My wife and I have been to several productions and had season tickets last year. My only complaint: once they get your phone number, they'll call a lot for fundraising and ticket sales. read more

Seattle Opera, you have failed me for the last time. I've been to the opera several times, in Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, so I don't consider myself an opera novice. I must say that my first visit to McCaw Hall is my last. My wife and I got Orchestra center seating that was less comfortable than the plastic bleachers at Safeco field. Additionally the cast for Madama Butterfly assaulted our ears with a sound that was more likely to attract cats for mating than resemble singing. The lead (Patricia Racette) was poorly cast, and Pinkerton was overpowered by every other tenor on the stage. Adding on to the horrible ambiance were a large portion of other attendees who seemed to think jeans, sneakers, sandals, short sleeve shirts, and even a few tee shirts were all appropriate attire. Seattle Opera, seriously, you shouldn't call yourself an opera. The new facility and the current production make you at best a bunch of hacks and posers. read more

I am very happy that Seattle has a world class Opera House. I was even a member for a time. This is a great modern Opera House, which is bigger then the famous Opera House in Sydney, Australia. Although, the one is Australia is two house, only one is for opera. The Seattle Opera House is conveniently located at the Seattle Center, and parking is easy and about average in price for city parking. The Seattle Opera House performs a range of different Operas every year. If you are a member or a former member you often get first pick on seats. The performances are well done, with excellent costumes and sets as well as great performers. The prices are fair, although like airplane seats, the seats are small with little leg room. This seems to be the norm for Opera Houses. The only Opera House I have ever been to that had good seats with lots of leg room was the original 18th Century State Opera House in Prague, Czech Republic. read more

I saw The Pearl Fishers on Friday the 30th, 2015 with what used to be called the Silver cast. The set was a magical place and the costumes were also beautifully done. The cast was not evenly talented. Anthony Kalis as Nadir sang sharp much of the evening except when he lightened up his sound. Keith Phares as Zurga has a lovely voice, but most of the time he just stood in one place with no energy in his body (which was very well built!) to convey his character. Joo Won Kang as Nourabad sang with a strong voice and presence. Other than the dancers who added beautifully to the evening, the star of the opera was Elizabeth Zharoff. She completely inhabited her character and sang with a lovely lush tone up and down her range that I hope to hear again. All eyes were on her when she was on the stage. The orchestra and chorus were not always together at moments throughout the evening. It is not an opera that thrills me, but it was good to see what Seattle Opera could do with it. Glad that I went. read more

Saw Turnadot the other night. Stunning all around. The house is beautiful, the sets incredible, the chorus was well prepared and the principals were top notch. We were on the third tier and could hear as if it were in my front room. If you want a drink go to the third tier and there are no lines. read more

I am a season ticket holder for the opera, and even though all my friends think I'm crazy I will not give up my seats! Being a sports fanatic father of 3 boys its hard for people to imagine me and my boys hanging at the opera on a regular basis. The costumes and sets are amazing, and the show is always good. It is a great experience and a fun "dress up" afternoon, although you can wear shorts and a T-shirt if you want! Everyone is very friendly and helpful. The kids like it, make sure if you have kids you prep them on the stories before hand, my wife LOVES it and it can't be beat for entertainment value. read more

I am actually from Vancouver, BC Canada and ever since I discovered the Seattle Opera I have been making the 2.5 hours drive, booking a nice hotel for the weekend and attending the Seattle Opera as part of my weekend outings. The reason I am doing all these is because Seattle opera performs Wagnerian Operas and they are manificently cast and also becasue Seattle Opera productions are great. I love the Thetre McCaw Hall and also the fact that you can actually have dinner before the show. Their gift shop is well supply with opera recordings and books. The venue actually makes you want to go all the way and have a wonderful night at the opera. At Seattle Opera I have seen Parsifal, Tristan und Isolde, Don Quichotte, Aida, La Traviata, and an amazing Elektra, and most recently Attila. I am looking forward to attend Madama Butterfly, Fidelio, Die Meistersinger, and my ultimate goal Der Ring des Nibelungen. I cant wait for the summer of 2013. read more