Minneapolis Opera Visitor Guide

Everything You Need to Know Before You Go.

Updated: July 15, 2026

Planning to attend the opera in Minneapolis?
Find upcoming performances, compare ticket prices, and learn about seating, dress code, parking, accessibility, and audience etiquette before your visit.

4
Opera Performances
Oct 31
Next Performance
$201
Lowest Price
$231
Average Price
Next opera performance:
Minnesota Opera: The Many Deaths of Laila Starr
Oct 31 · 7:30 PM · Saint Paul, MN
View Tickets
On this page:

What to Expect

Opera performances typically run two to three hours, including intermission. Formal dress isn't required, though many attendees choose smart-casual or evening attire. Doors usually open 30–60 minutes before curtain, giving time to find seats and pick up will-call tickets.

Opera First-Time Visitors

Attending the opera for the first time can be a memorable experience. Reading a brief synopsis beforehand, arriving early, and reviewing the performance program can make the production easier to follow and more enjoyable.

Plan Your Opera Visit

Simple etiquette tips to help you enjoy the performance while respecting fellow guests, performers, and the venue.


Learn the essential etiquette for attending an opera, including arrival times, mobile phone use, applause, photography, dress code, food and drinks, and audience courtesy. Following these simple guidelines helps create an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Plan Your Opera Visit
Plan Your Opera Visit

Visitor Information

Helpful information about tickets, seating, parking, dress code, and arrival before your opera performance.

Before You Go

Planning ahead helps make your opera experience more enjoyable. Before leaving, confirm your performance time, review your tickets, check the venue's policies, and allow extra time for parking, security screening, and finding your seat.

Tickets

Purchase tickets in advance whenever possible, especially for popular productions and weekend performances. Mobile tickets are accepted by most venues, but always review the delivery instructions before arriving.

Dress Code

Most opera performances in Chicago do not require formal attire. Business casual, cocktail attire, or smart casual clothing is appropriate for most evenings. Opening nights, premieres, and gala performances may be more formal.

Arrival Time

Plan to arrive approximately 30–45 minutes before the performance begins. This provides enough time for parking, security screening, finding your seat, and reading the program before the curtain rises.

Opera Ticket Buying Guide

The average ticket price for October 31, 2026 at Ordway Music Theater at Ordway Center For Performing Arts in Saint Paul, MN is $231, with the highest-priced seats reaching $387. Prices vary by seating tier and how close to the performance date you buy.

Looking forDate & TimeFromTickets
Cheapest ticketsNov 5, 2026 · 7:30 PM$20128 availableSelect Seats
Most tickets availableNov 5, 2026 · 7:30 PM$2017 availableSelect Seats
Selling fastNov 5, 2026 · 7:30 PM$2017 leftSelect Seats
Best weekday valueNov 5, 2026 · 7:30 PM$2017 availableSelect Seats
Best weekend valueOct 31, 2026 · 7:30 PM$2017 availableSelect Seats

Opera Etiquette

Helpful guidelines to help you enjoy the performance while respecting fellow audience members and the performers.
🎭
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before the performance begins to allow time for parking, security, and finding your seat.
📱
Silence Your Phone
Turn off or silence all mobile devices before the performance starts to avoid disturbing performers and other guests.
🪑
Stay Seated
Remain seated during the performance whenever possible. If you must leave, wait for an appropriate break or intermission.
👏
Applaud at the Right Time
Applause is typically appropriate at the end of an act or after exceptional performances. Follow the audience if you're unsure.
📷
Follow Photography Rules
Photography, video recording, and audio recording are generally prohibited during performances unless specifically permitted by the venue.
🤝
Respect Fellow Guests
Keep conversations to a minimum, avoid blocking views, and be considerate of those around you for an enjoyable experience for everyone.
🎟
Have Your Ticket Ready
Keep your mobile or printed ticket easily accessible before entering the venue to help speed up admission and reduce delays.
🎼
Read the Program
Take a few minutes to review the performance program before the curtain rises. It can help you follow the story, understand the acts, and appreciate the production even more.

At the Venue

Find helpful information about parking, seating, accessibility, dining, and other visitor services before you arrive.

Parking & Transportation

Many opera venues offer nearby parking garages, valet service, or public transportation access. Check available parking options before your visit, especially for weekend performances and special events.

Seating Guide

Opera houses typically offer Orchestra, Dress Circle, Mezzanine, Balcony, and Box seating. Seat availability and viewing angles vary by venue and production.

Accessibility

Most opera venues provide wheelchair seating, elevators, accessible restrooms, assistive listening devices, and other accessibility services. Contact the venue before your visit if special accommodations are needed.

Food & Drinks

Many venues offer bars, concessions, and beverages before performances and during intermission. Numerous restaurants are also located near Chicago's major performing arts venues.

Minneapolis Opera Schedule 2026–2027

Browse upcoming opera performances in Minneapolis, compare venues, check dates, explore seating options, and find available tickets.
Select dates...
Upcoming Opera Performances: 4
  • Oct
    31
    2026
    7:30 PM
    Sat
    Minnesota Opera: The Many Deaths of Laila Starr
    Ordway Music Theater at Ordway Center For Performing Arts
    location55102, 345 Washington Street  Saint Paul, MNlocation55102, 345 Washington Street Saint PaulMNUS
    From $201Avg. price ~ $2317 tickets remaining!
    View Tickets
  • Nov
    05
    2026
    7:30 PM
    Thu
    Minnesota Opera: The Many Deaths of Laila Starr
    Ordway Music Theater at Ordway Center For Performing Arts
    location55102, 345 Washington Street  Saint Paul, MNlocation55102, 345 Washington Street Saint PaulMNUS
    From $201Avg. price ~ $2317 tickets remaining!
    View Tickets
  • Nov
    07
    2026
    7:30 PM
    Sat
    Minnesota Opera: The Many Deaths of Laila Starr
    Ordway Music Theater at Ordway Center For Performing Arts
    location55102, 345 Washington Street  Saint Paul, MNlocation55102, 345 Washington Street Saint PaulMNUS
    From $201Avg. price ~ $2317 tickets remaining!
    View Tickets
  • Nov
    08
    2026
    2:00 PM
    Sun
    Minnesota Opera: The Many Deaths of Laila Starr
    Ordway Music Theater at Ordway Center For Performing Arts
    location55102, 345 Washington Street  Saint Paul, MNlocation55102, 345 Washington Street Saint PaulMNUS
    From $201Avg. price ~ $2317 tickets remaining!
    View Tickets

Minneapolis Opera FAQ

Answers to Common Questions Before Attending the Opera

What should I wear to the opera in Minneapolis?

Business casual or smart casual attire is appropriate for most performances. Formal attire is optional, except for certain gala events.

How early should I arrive?

Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before the performance starts.

Is there an intermission?

Many opera productions include one or more intermissions, depending on the performance.

Can I bring a bag?

Most venues allow small bags, although security policies vary. Review the venue's current guidelines before your visit.

Are children allowed?

Age recommendations vary by production. Family-friendly performances are often available throughout the season.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the performance?

Depending on availability, same-day tickets may be offered online or at the venue box office.