Plan Your Visit
Opera in Other Languages
Late to the Opera?
Children at the Opera
Pictures & Recordings
Special Facilities for Persons with Disabilities
Concessions
Run Times
Dress Code
Merchandise
Directions & Parking
Dining Near the Kimmel Center
How will I understand the opera if I don’t speak any foreign languages?
Center City Opera Theater is pleased to offer projected English titles above the stage for every main stage opera. Our Opera Encore Series offers plot summaries.
What if I am late for a performance?
Latecomers will not be seated once the performance has begun. Patrons who must leave will not be re-admitted during the performance. There is no standing room. These patrons must remain in the lobby until a suitable break, which is usually the next intermission. Evening performances begin promptly at 8:00 p.m. Matinee performances begin promptly at 2:30 p.m. A free discussion is always offered to ticket holders one hour prior to scheduled curtain time.
Can I bring my children to the opera?
Center City Opera Theater welcomes everyone. However, it is our policy that all children under the age of 9 be a well-behaved ticket holder. We urge parents to use discretion in determining whether or not their child would enjoy attending a performance, as some operas contain mature subject matter or realistic stage effects that may not be suitable for all children. Additionally, many operas have running times of 3 hours. Note: All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket to enter the theater.
Can I take pictures, videotape, or tape-record a Lyric performance?
No. The use of cameras, cellular phones, and any kind of recording equipment in the Kimmel Center is strictly prohibited.
Are there special facilities available for patrons with disabilities?
The Kimmel Center is accessible to physically disabled persons, with elevator service to all floors. The Perelman Theater contains seating that is accessible to persons in wheelchairs.. The Opera House has automatic door-openers on exterior doors, and accessible drinking fountains and public telephones. All restroom facilities are accessible to patrons with disabilities. Infrared assistive listening devices for persons desiring amplification are available at no cost at any open checkroom.
Are there concession areas at Center City Opera Theater?
The Kimmel Center offers coffee, beer, wine, liquor, soda, water, and confections in designated areas on all floors of the Kimmel Center.
What are the running times for each opera?
Every opera is different. Read the production notes for the opera in which you are interested to see detailed running times for all of the operas within our current season. Please note that all running times include intermissions.
Does Center City Opera Theater have a dress code?
There is no specific dress code for audience members, and as such, patrons come dressed in anything from jeans to tuxedos. Black-tie dress is traditionally reserved for opening nights and special events. However, we do invite you to make your experience at Center City Opera Theater an “occasion to remember.”
Is Center City Opera Theater merchandise available?
Not yet! But be sure to check back soon!
Do you sell audio recordings/videos of Center City Opera Theater performances?
Recordings of Center City Opera Theater performances are not offered for sale.
How do I get to the Kimmel Center? Do you have online directions?
Click here for directions to the Kimmel Center.
Where do I park once I arrive at the Kimmel Center?
Click here for parking options.
Can you recommend any restaurants and/or hotels near the Kimmel Center?
Click here for neighboring patron information.