36 phrases · Levels: A1A2B1B2
Vorrei due biglietti per lo spettacolo di stasera.
I would like two tickets for tonight's show.
At the theatre box office when purchasing tickets on the day of the performance. Works for any type of show — opera, ballet, play, or musical.
Quali sono i posti migliori per sentire bene?
Which are the best seats for good acoustics?
When choosing between seat categories and you care more about sound than sightlines. Especially relevant for opera, where the voice is primary.
Avete il programma della stagione?
Do you have the season programme?
At the theatre box office or information desk when you want to plan ahead. Italian opera and theatre seasons typically run from autumn to spring.
A che ora si alza il sipario?
What time does the curtain go up?
When you want to confirm the exact performance start time. A more theatrical way to ask than simply 'a che ora inizia'.
C'è un codice di abbigliamento per il teatro?
Is there a dress code for the theatre?
Before attending a prestigious opera house or theatre event. La Scala and similar venues expect elegant dress, especially for first nights and gala performances.
Posso avere il libretto dell'opera?
Can I have the libretto of the opera?
At the box office or in the theatre foyer. Having the libretto (text of the opera) helps you follow the singing. Many opera houses also have supertitles above the stage.
Il mio posto è in terza fila.
My seat is in the third row.
When looking for your seat inside the theatre and explaining to an usher or fellow theatre-goer where you are supposed to sit.
Scusi, può accompagnarmi al mio posto?
Excuse me, can you show me to my seat?
Address this to a theatre usher (maschera). Italian theatres always have ushers who escort you to your seat and check tickets. A tip is traditional but not obligatory.
Quando si applaude?
When do you applaud?
Ask a knowledgeable companion or theatre staff before the performance. Opera has specific conventions around when to applaud that differ from other performing arts.
Devo lasciare il cappotto al guardaroba?
Should I leave my coat at the cloakroom?
In Italian theatres there is usually a cloakroom near the entrance. It is strongly recommended to use it as bringing large coats into the auditorium is frowned upon and uncomfortable.
C'è un bar aperto nell'intervallo?
Is there a bar open during the interval?
When you want to plan an interval drink. The bar at Italian opera houses is an important social space and often sells good prosecco and snacks.
Ci sono posti in prima fila?
Are there seats in the front row?
When you want to sit very close to the stage for the full theatrical experience. In opera, however, the front row is not necessarily the best acoustically.
Sono in ritardo. Posso ancora entrare?
I am late. Can I still come in?
When you arrive after the performance has started. Italian theatres typically do not admit latecomers until the first natural break in the action.
È possibile affittare un palco privato?
Is it possible to rent a private box?
For a special occasion or corporate entertainment. Many Italian opera houses rent their historic boxes for the evening. This is an exclusive and quintessentially Italian experience.
Questa sera c'è balletto o opera?
Is there ballet or opera this evening?
When you know a major theatre is performing but are unsure of the type of show. Italian theatres typically alternate between opera, ballet, and concerts.
Può riassumermi la trama dell'opera?
Can you summarise the plot of the opera for me?
Before a performance, ask a knowledgeable companion or theatre staff member. Understanding the plot greatly enhances the emotional impact of opera, even if you do not understand Italian.
Chi canta il ruolo principale stasera?
Who is singing the lead role tonight?
Opera lovers always want to know who is performing, as the singer profoundly affects the experience. Ask at the box office or check the programme.
Avete biglietti a tariffa giovani?
Do you have tickets at youth rates?
When you are a young person wanting to attend the opera at a reduced price. Many Italian opera houses offer special rates for under-26 or under-30 year olds.
La prego di abbassare la voce.
Please lower your voice.
When a fellow audience member is talking too loudly during the performance. Italian theatre etiquette is strict — the formal register here signals seriousness.
È vietato fotografare durante lo spettacolo?
Is it forbidden to photograph during the show?
Ask before the performance or confirm what you see in programme notes. Photography and recording during live performances is typically banned at Italian theatres.
Possibile che cantino il bis?
Is it possible they will sing an encore?
After a spectacular aria when you sense the audience wants more. The bis (encore) in Italian opera is a request for immediate repetition of a piece just performed.
Quando è stato costruito questo teatro?
When was this theatre built?
When visiting a historic Italian opera house and curious about its architecture and history. Most great Italian theatres are centuries old.
Posso avere il programma della serata?
Can I have the evening's programme?
Upon entering the theatre, typically collected from an usher or from stands in the foyer. Italian theatre programmes are usually elaborate and informative publications.
Perché fischiavano?
Why were they booing?
After hearing the audience boo a performer. In Italian opera houses, booing is a legitimate form of critical response from knowledgeable audiences. Asking this shows curiosity about Italian opera culture.
Lo spettacolo è finito?
Has the show ended?
When you are unsure whether the curtain calls are the real end or whether more acts follow. Opera can be confusing if you do not know how many acts there are.
Fate anche teatro di prosa?
Do you also perform spoken theatre?
When asking a theatre that specialises in opera whether it also stages spoken plays. Italy has a rich tradition of both opera and dramatic theatre.
Ho sentito parlare di questa cantante. È brava?
I have heard of this singer. Is she good?
When you recognise a name in the cast and want a local or knowledgeable person's opinion. Italians are often very frank in their assessments of opera singers.
Cosa ne pensa dello spettacolo?
What do you think of the show?
During or after the interval, as a conversation opener with a neighbouring audience member. Italians love discussing a performance in progress and are forthright in their opinions.
Questo teatro è patrimonio UNESCO?
Is this theatre a UNESCO heritage site?
When visiting a particularly historic Italian opera house and curious about its cultural status. Several Italian theatres and cities are UNESCO-protected.
Riesco a godermi l'opera anche se non capisco l'italiano?
Can I enjoy the opera even if I don't understand Italian?
A question from a non-Italian visitor, often asked at the box office or to a local companion. The answer is always reassuring.
Qual è la differenza tra un'aria e un recitativo?
What is the difference between an aria and a recitative?
A question for a knowledgeable companion or a guide at an introductory opera event. Understanding the structure of opera makes the experience much richer.
Può consigliarmi un ristorante vicino al teatro?
Can you recommend a restaurant near the theatre?
After the performance when you want to continue the evening with dinner. Italian dinners after opera are a beloved tradition — restaurants near major theatres stay open late to serve post-show diners.
Quali voci cantano stasera?
What voice types are singing tonight?
When studying opera and wanting to identify the voice types in a cast. A question for a knowledgeable companion or when reading a programme.
Posso comprare qualcosa da regalare in ricordo del teatro?
Can I buy something to give as a gift in memory of the theatre?
At the theatre bookshop or gift shop, when you want to bring home a meaningful souvenir from a great Italian opera house.
Chi dirige l'orchestra stasera?
Who is conducting the orchestra tonight?
Serious opera-goers care about the conductor as much as the singers. The conductor shapes the tempo, dynamics, and overall interpretation of the opera.
È un'opera che conosco?
Is it an opera I would know?
When deciding whether to attend an opera and you want to know if it is from the popular repertoire. A lighthearted question that opens a conversation about opera.