Guide to the Season

What are the season’s operas about?  How much time do you have?

Knowing the storyline of the opera before you arrive at the performance will greatly enhance your experience. The more insight you have, the deeper appreciation you may enjoy! How much time do you have?

Less than five minutes:

You can take a quick look at performance pages on this Web site for a short summary of the opera plot (see Barber of Seville and Romeo & Juliet). They provide all you need to understand the story that unfolds with each opera.

20 minutes or less:

Plan to arrive at the theatre ahead of time to enjoy a short talk (15 minutes) before curtain time on the Ward Avenue Lanai. It's free and it’s short! Seating is provided. Programs begin 60 minutes and 30 minutes before curtain time.

30 to 60 minutes:

You can get great introductory information about the operas from a number of short presentations by HOT. The HOT Education Department offers a free introductory Opera Talk on select Sundays at Border’s Books and Music/Ward Center. More in-depth programs with details about the composer, the historic relevance and other great insights about the operas are presented on select Thursdays and Saturdays at the Honolulu Academy of Arts. Free to HOT members; $3 to general public. Presentation dates/times - see the performance pages: Barber of Seville or Romeo & Juliet.

Time to invest in your passion for opera:

For deep journey into the HOT season operas, take a non-credit course at the University of Hawaii. The course explores all aspects of the opera and includes exclusive access to a HOT dress rehearsal, presentation by a member of the opera artistic staff and backstage tour. Call: 956-8400 for details.

See answers to frequently asked questions about this season and HOT.