FAQs
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How can opera be silent?
Silent like a silent disco - each audience member has their own individual headphones through which they hear the whole opera - music and singing!
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Performers sing live and their vocals are mixed with a pre-recorded backing track, all fed straight to your own individual headphones!
Do you have an orchestra?
Sometimes!
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Mostly we pre-record an orchestra, and then mix them in with live singers.
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We also often use a small live band to add to the experience, so it's a big mix of everything.
Do I have to wear head-phones?
At Silent Opera, there are two soundworlds; inside the headphones, and out!
​​Inside you’ll hear the voices, live instruments, and a whole world of musical sound. Outside the headphones you’ll hear whatever’s happening live.​​We’re always experimenting and adjusting to suit the story we’re going to tell.
Some of our shows don't have headphones at all.
Where will I sit?
Throughout the shows, there are always places for audiences to sit.
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These aren't conventional seats, they'll be part of the set - so you might be sitting on a stool, a chair, a sofa or maybe even an old car tyre.
It's your choice!
Do I have to know anything about opera?
Our shows are designed for everyone, no previous opera knowledge required!
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We always perform in english, and believe that all shows should need no prior experience or research.
What do I wear?
You can wear whatever you want - as long as you're comfortable to sit or stand for a while!
How will I know what to do?
When you collect your headphones at the beginning of the show - you'll be shown how they work.
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There are many front of house staff on hand to help you throughout the performance.
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The cast will always tell you when and where you're moving, so you won't get lost!
Can I work with you?
We're always happy to hear from people who want to work with us, from producers to performers - please use the contact form and let us know!
Can I hire your shows?
Of course you can!
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If you'd like to see Silent Opera in your home town, please get in touch via the contact form on our contact page.