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Metropolitan Opera

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 240 min.

Ages: 8+

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Metropolitan Opera is a world-renowned opera house located in New York City, and is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in the arts. The opera house offers a range of performances from classic operas to contemporary productions, featuring some of the most talented performers from around the world. Attending a performance at the Metropolitan Opera is an opportunity to witness the beauty and drama of operatic art at its highest level. The stunning stage sets, elaborate costumes, and world-class musical performances combine to create an unforgettable experience that appeals to both seasoned opera enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. In addition to the performances, the Metropolitan Opera offers a range of behind-the-scenes tours and talks that allow visitors to explore the history and inner workings of the opera house. The tour includes a visit to the costume department, the wig and makeup room, and the orchestra pit, giving visitors a glimpse into the incredible attention to detail and skill required to produce an opera.

Lincoln Center, New York, NY 10023 Get Directions





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Take a look behind the scenes at our photo shoot for Bizet’s Carmen, with mezzo-soprano Aigul Akhmetshina and photographer Paola Kudacki. Carrie Cracknell’s new production opens December 31, 2023.

Tickets are on sale now for the Met’s 2023–24 Live in HD season of movie theater transmissions, which features nine spectacular productions, including exciting company premieres, new productions, repertory favorites, and behind-the-scenes content.

Take a look behind the scenes at our photo shoot for Florencia en el Amazonas, with soprano Ailyn Pérez and photographer Paola Kudacki. Daniel Catán’s enchanting opera opens November 16, 2023. Videography by Neville Braithwaite / Met Opera.

Preview the extraordinary lineup and casting for the Met’s 2023–24 Live in HD series of movie theater transmissions, which features nine spectacular productions, including exciting company premieres, new productions, and classic repertory favorites.

Take a look behind the scenes at our photo shoot for Dead Man Walking, with Joyce DiDonato, Ryan McKinny, and photographer Paola Kudacki. The curtain rises on Jake Heggie’s acclaimed opera September 26, 2023. Videography by Neville Braithwaite / Met Opera.

Take a look behind the scenes at our photo shoot for X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X, with baritone Will Liverman and photographer Zenith Richards. Anthony Davis’s groundbreaking opera opens November 3, 2023. Videography by Neville Braithwaite / Met Opera.

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Metropolitan Opera News

The Riverside Opera Company to Present a Celebration of Hispanic Heritage With Concierto Español

The Riverside Opera Company will celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month featuring Carla López-Speziale, mezzo-soprano; Alejandro de los Santos, baritone and Nilko Andreas, guitar, with all accompanied on piano by Riverside Opera Company's Olga Gurevich in Concierto Español.

Seattle Symphony Names Xian Zhang as Next Music Director

 The Seattle Symphony has announced Xian Zhang as its next Music Director, beginning a 5-year contract in the 2025/2026 season.

Jelani Remy, Emily Skeggs, and More Will Lead THE APPLE BOYS Industry Reading

THE APPLE BOYS, a new fast-paced musical comedy set in Gilded Age Coney Island, with book by Jono Lyons and music and lyrics by 2017 Jonathan Larson Grant recipient Ben Bonnema, will have industry presentations on Monday, September 23 and Tuesday, September 24 in Manhattan at Ripley Grier 38th St. Studios.

Emmy Rossum and Zoe Winters Will Lead WALDEN at Second Stage Theater

Second Stage Theater has announced that EMMY ROSSUM and ZOË WINTERS will star in Amy Berryman’s play, WALDEN, directed by Whitney White. WALDEN will begin previews on October 16th and will officially open on November 7th at the Tony Kiser Theater (305 West 43rd street). 

Xian Zhang Named Music Director Of The Seattle Symphony 

BroadwayWorld announced the latest updates on upcoming shows and events, providing detailed information on new productions, cast changes, and special performances in the theater community.

Tony-Winner Kelli O'Hara To Receive 2024 Sarah Siddons Society Award

Kelli O'Hara will be honored with the 2024 Sarah Siddons Society Award on November 6, 2024. The award recognizes her contributions to Broadway and the performing arts.

MTC Names Rachel Kara Pérez as Director of Learning and Community Engagement

Rachel Kara Pérez has been named Director of Learning and Community Engagement and will lead MTC’s renowned program previously known as MTC Education.

Emmy Rossum and Zoë Winters Will Lead Amy Berryman's WALDEN at Second Stage

EMMY ROSSUM and ZOË WINTERS are set to star in Amy Berryman’s play, WALDEN, directed by Whitney White. Find out more about the new play here!

Andy Nyman, Marc Antolin, and More Will Lead THE PRODUCERS at Menier Chocolate Factory

As public booking opens for Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan’s The Producers, the Menier Chocolate Factory has announced initial casting. Find out who's joining the cast here!

Industry Pro Newsletter: Legal Showdowns and Leadership Shifts Across the Performing Arts

This edition of our newsletter brings a focus on leadership transitions and legal battles within the performing arts world. From the San Francisco Ballet facing serious lawsuits that challenge its treatment of dancers, to Anna Netrebko's narrowed but ongoing lawsuit against the Metropolitan Opera, the theme of accountability resonates throughout.

ODE TO JOY Comes to Sydney Opera House Concert Hall Next Month

2024 marks 200 years since Beethoven premiered his Ninth Symphony with its mighty ‘Ode to Joy’ choral finale in Vienna, sending shockwaves through the artistic heart of Europe and opening the door to a new visionary musical era. A groundbreaking achievement which revolutionised the symphony format with the mind-blowing inclusion of human voices, ‘Ode to Joy’ also gained instant acclaim as a radical call for equality, freedom and universal brotherhood.

New Musical THE GOOSE GIRL Will Receive Industry Reading, Directed by Denis Jones

Two-Time Tony Nominee Director Denis Jones will present a reading of the new musical The Goose Girl based on Shannon Hale's 2003 novel of the same name on Friday, September 13th at Theater 315 (315 West 47th Street).  

MADAME BUTTERFLY: AN ADAPTATION Comes to Bay Street Theatre in October

Bay Street Theater & Sag Harbor Center for the Arts has announced the return of Divaria Productions Opera Company to Bay Street with LIVE OPERA for the 9th consecutive year, after presenting the first ever live opera La Triviata at the theater in 2015. 

Cast Changed For THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO at TOSCA at Royal Opera

Jacquelyn Stucker has withdrawn from all performances of The Marriage of Figaro for health reasons. The role of Countess Almaviva will be performed by Maria Bengtsson. 

Interview: Artistic Directors Talk About Contemporary Ballet Company Konverjdans

Amy Saunder, Jordan Miller, and Tiffany Mangulabnan are the three co-founding artistic directors of konverjdans (converge/dance), the women-led, Brooklyn-based contemporary ballet company that has been creating and presenting dance in NYC since 2016. The team recently presented its 8th season of their contemporary ballet HYPHA in Brooklyn, NY which showcased performances choreographed by each of the women. We spoke to the three artistic directors about this year’s HYPHA, their influences, and what we can look forward to next.


Metropolitan Opera Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Metropolitan Opera

The closest subway stops to the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center are the 66th Street-Lincoln Center station (served by the 1 train) and the 72nd Street station (served by the 1, 2, and 3 trains). Both stations are just a short walk away from the opera house.

If you're looking for subway updates or want to plan your route, I recommend checking the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at https://new.mta.info/. This website provides real-time updates on subway service changes, delays, and other important information.

Additionally, Lincoln Center is a cultural hub with a variety of attractions and activities. While you're in the area, I suggest exploring the beautiful Lincoln Center campus, which includes iconic venues like the David Geffen Hall, the David H. Koch Theater, and the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. You can also enjoy a stroll through the nearby Central Park or visit the nearby Columbus Circle, which offers shopping, dining, and great views of the city.

I hope you have a fantastic time at the Metropolitan Opera and enjoy everything that Lincoln Center has to offer!


What's the best way to get to Metropolitan Opera by bus?

The Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center is located on Broadway, between 63rd and 64th Streets. There are several bus stops near the opera house that you can use to get there. Here are the closest ones:

1. Broadway/W 64 St: This bus stop is right in front of the Metropolitan Opera. You can check the latest bus schedules and routes on the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at https://new.mta.info/.

2. Broadway/W 63 St: This bus stop is just a few steps away from the opera house. You can find more information about bus routes and updates on the MTA website mentioned above.

3. Columbus Circle: This is another nearby bus stop located at the intersection of Broadway, Central Park West, and 59th Street. From here, it's a short walk to the Metropolitan Opera. For bus schedules and real-time updates, visit the MTA website.

Remember to check the MTA website for any changes or service disruptions before you travel. Enjoy your visit to the Metropolitan Opera!


How much time should I plan to spend at Metropolitan Opera?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the Metropolitan Opera in New York City depends on a few factors. If you are a passionate opera lover and want to immerse yourself in the full experience, I would recommend setting aside an entire evening. Most opera performances at the Met have a runtime of approximately three to four hours, including intermissions.

However, if you have a tight schedule or are looking for a shorter visit, you can consider attending a matinee performance. Matinees typically start in the afternoon and have a shorter runtime, usually around two to three hours. This allows you to enjoy a world-class opera performance without dedicating your entire evening.

Keep in mind that the Met is not just about the performance itself. The iconic Lincoln Center, where the opera house is located, offers stunning architecture, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere. Arriving early or staying after the show to explore the surroundings can enhance your overall experience.

In conclusion, plan to spend an evening at the Metropolitan Opera for a complete opera experience, or opt for a matinee if you have limited time. Either way, you are in for a treat of exceptional music, talented performers, and a memorable night in the heart of New York City.


Can I bring food and drinks into Metropolitan Opera?

The Metropolitan Opera in New York City has a food and drink policy that allows patrons to bring beverages into the theater, but outside food is not permitted. You can purchase drinks and snacks at the opera house's concession stands before the performance and during intermission. They offer a variety of refreshments, including soft drinks, coffee, wine, beer, and light snacks. Enjoy your time at the opera, and don't forget to indulge in some treats during intermission!


Does Metropolitan Opera offer luggage storage?

The Metropolitan Opera in New York City does not have a luggage storage policy. However, they do have a coat check service available for patrons to store their coats and small personal items during performances. It is important to note that large bags or suitcases are not allowed inside the theater, so it is best to make arrangements for storing your luggage elsewhere before attending a performance at the Metropolitan Opera. There are several luggage storage services available in the city, such as luggage storage facilities near major transportation hubs or at hotels that offer this service to non-guests for a fee.


Is Metropolitan Opera a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Absolutely! The Metropolitan Opera in New York City is a fantastic experience for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. While the performances are primarily in Italian, French, German, and Russian, the Met provides English translations in the form of projected supertitles above the stage. This allows everyone in the audience to follow along with the story and fully appreciate the incredible vocal performances.

Attending a performance at the Metropolitan Opera is a great way to immerse yourself in the world of opera and experience the grandeur of one of the world's most prestigious opera houses. The stunning sets, elaborate costumes, and world-class talent make for an unforgettable evening.

If you're visiting from another country, be sure to check the Met's schedule in advance and book your tickets early, as performances often sell out quickly. Additionally, the Met offers backstage tours, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the opera house and its history.

So whether you're an opera aficionado or simply curious about this art form, the Metropolitan Opera is a must-visit destination for visitors to New York City, regardless of language proficiency.


What ages are appropriate for Metropolitan Opera?

The Metropolitan Opera in New York City welcomes opera lovers of all ages! However, it is important to consider the length and content of the performances when bringing young children. While there is no strict age restriction, it is generally recommended that children be at least 8 years old to fully appreciate and enjoy the opera experience. The operas can be quite lengthy, often spanning several hours, so it's important to ensure that children have the attention span to sit through a performance. Additionally, some operas may contain mature themes or intense scenes that may not be suitable for very young children. Ultimately, it's up to the parents' discretion to determine if their child is ready for the opera.


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