When You Visit…
*NEW* Centennial Concert Hall Bag Policy
Backpacks and large bags/suitcases are not allowed in the Concert Hall (cannot be stored at Coat Check). There is a limit of one bag per person and the maximum size of a bag/purse is 12″ x 12″ x 6″.
For more information, please visit Services & Policies: Centennial Concert Hall. For questions about Centennial Concert Hall policies, please contact Centennial Concert Hall directly.
Turn Your Phone Off
Make sure your cell phone is turned off and mute all other pagers and alarms. We want to make sure your visit as as relaxing for you as it is for the patrons around you.
Keep the Noise Down
Please respect the experience of others and keep noise to a minimum. Conversation, coughing, rustling through the program and unwrapping candies are distracting to other audience members as well as the performers. Unwrap your candies or lozenges and check your program before the performance starts or at intermission. Also, please note that babes in arms are not permitted.
Be Scent Sensitive
When attending the opera, please be considerate of those with allergies and sensitivities to fragrance and chemicals by refraining from wearing fragrant personal care products when you visit.
Don’t Take Photos of the Show
Taking photos or making audio or video recordings during a performance is strictly prohibited – however, we encourage you to take photos and selfies in the lobby, during intermission, and before the curtain goes up! And for online posts, you can tag us and share your visit at @ManitobaOpera, and use the hashtags #MBopera and #ManitobaOpera.
Babes in Arms
Regardless of age, every patron requires an admission ticket. To ensure maximum enjoyment for all, we recommend that children be old enough to sit quietly throughout a performance. Babes in arms will not be permitted.
Your Visit FAQ
What are your current health protocols?
All of our most recent health protocols can be found here. If you have any questions or concerns about your visit please call the box office at 204-944-8824.
Will I understand the singing?
Yes! All of our operas have English translations projected above the stage. You can follow along even if you don’t know Italian. If you don’t want to follow the translation, sit back and enjoy the performance. And the amazing thing about opera is that the singers do not use microphones!
What should I wear?
There is no dress code, but a visit to the opera can be a great excuse to get dressed up! Some patrons like to wear suits or dresses, while some like to wear jeans. Please wear whatever makes you feel comfortable.
How long is the performance?
Performances usually range from between 2.5 hours to 3 hours, please check the individual show’s page for a more accurate running time before you visit. At intermission, the curtain goes down and you can head into the lobby to stretch your legs, use the washroom, or purchase a snack from the concession stands. A chime will sound when it’s time to go back into the theatre.
Where is the Centennial Concert Hall?
The Centennial Concert Hall is located at 555 Main St. (directly across from City Hall).
What time Should I arrive?
The box office opens one hour before the start of the opera. Please make sure you are here with enough time to get settled.
Where can I park?
If you are driving, please make sure to come early to find a parking spot. There are many parking lots where you can pay for parking when you visit. Patrons requiring accessible parking can call us at 204-944-8824 for more info. Click here for the parking map.
Where do I go once I arrive at the Concert Hall?
Enter through the main doors facing Main Street. You will be greeted by an usher, who will check your ticket and direct you to which door (portal) is closest to your seat. If you’re not sure where to go, more ushers standing near the portal doors can direct you to your seat. If you arrive late, an usher may ask you to wait until there is a break before entering the theatre, or seat you in in temporary seats at the end of an aisle.
What should I expect during the opera?
The lights dim and the audience starts applauding – the conductor walks into the orchestra pit to lead the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. The music will begin, the curtain will rise, and you’ll be transported to another time and place as the artists, costumes, and scenery bring the opera to life. Hear something you love? Feel free to applaud at the end of the scene when there’s a break in the music.
