Opening night at the opera is usually a very well publicized formal event. In fact, this season is the 50^th anniversary for the Minnesota Opera and Nabucco is going to be a VERY big deal. So, ladies and gentlemen, be prepared to look good. Go big or go home.

Such a grand occasion tends to bring back old world glamor so expect women to go all out with jewels, up-dos and ball gowns. Also expect to see some men donning classic tuxedos or white ties and tails. If you’re not comfortable in this style, semi-formal attire is also appropriate. The important thing is to look classy.

So, what do you wear?

Men: You don’t have to bust out the tails and white tie, but if there is anything you should wear, it should include a well-tailored or fitted suit with a tie/bowtie and a jacket.  All men look good in jacket.  ALL MEN.  If you do decide to wear a tailcoat – it must have a cut front that reaches to your waist and there should not be any part of the white vest underneath showing below the front. These coats have a split in the tail and often buttons on either side. The tails at the rear should not fall below your knees.

Ladies: Ball Gown or formal gown.  Any color will do.  In fact, the bolder –the better! However, you are not at a cotillion, so please avoid the white from head to toe as this is usually reserved for debutantes. A ball gown can be sleeveless, have short sleeves or even long sleeves (suitable for older ladies). It can be one piece, two pieces, long or short.  If opting for short, please make sure you are not wearing something that will embarrass you parent’s too much – i.e. – showing more skin than is necessary.  This is a formal event, not the prom. Where to shop? Stop in to Saks 5^th Avenue Off Fifth, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus or Macy’s for some newer fashions. Want something a bit more unique? Check out consignment shops such as GH2, June or Rodeo Drive for something a bit more price conscious.

Don’t have the funds to drop on a formal gown? No worries! Rental sites are a great way to dress up, without the commitment. Rent the Runway is an online membership-based service that offers thousands of designer dresses and accessories that women can borrow for just 10 percent of their retail value. They have tons of formal gowns from designers such as Bagdley Mischka, Zac Posen, Nicole Miller, Diane von Furstenberg, Vera Wang, Robert Rodriguez, Anna Sui and Christian Siriano.

Accessorize

Even if you don’t have a formal dress, you can still glam up your outfit with accessories. Carry an elegant evening bag to complement your formal dress. A cashmere shawl will add a nice touch to the outfit as well. The opera is also a good opportunity to break out that expensive jewelry you stash away for special occasions. If you don’t have the funds, Bag Borrow or Steal has additional accessories or purses to complete your look and make you look like a million bucks – for only a hundred of bucks.

Remember, whatever you do decide to wear – remember to have a great attitude and lots of fun. People remember the fun-loving couple having a blast more often than what they truly were wearing.

See you on opening night!

Tempo’s 10 years old – and looking better than ever, don’t you think? As I begin my second year as Chair, I’m proud to be just one small part of a thriving organization. Minnesota Opera has led the path, proving that opera is not only healthy but also has a place in the 21^st century. In addition, through a dedicated base of volunteers, Tempo has helped supplement an already strong audience with the next generation of opera goers in their 20s and 30s.

This year’s volunteer Board of Directors is the largest group Tempo has ever had, and I’m continually amazed by the passion, dedication, optimism and enthusiasm they bring to the organization. We are a diverse group, but one of the common themes amongst us is that Tempo is more than just attending operas; it’s a community.

We are very fortunate to have a strong arts scene in the Twin Cities, and opera here is thriving. These days you can see opera on traditional stages like the Ordway or Orchestral Hall, but also in a park, in the ruins of an old mill, or even in a bar. Opera is quickly reaching new audiences with its gift of an unamplified voice soaring out over the orchestra and reaching inside and squeezing your guts.

This season is shaping up to be fantastic: not only some of the best operas from the repertoire of Puccini, Verdi, and Donizetti, but a world premier and rarely produced version of Hamlet. Tempo will be at each production to educate and entertain, and continue to introduce opera to the next generation. I invite you to check us out, whether it’s your first opera or your hundredth – I promise you’ll enjoy it.

See you at the Opera!

Benjamin Jones

Chair, Tempo Board of Directors

It may be the “dog days of summer” but Tempo is ready for the season to begin. Let the the season of celebrations commence with Tempo’s 10th Anniversary and Minnesota Opera’s 50th season!

Who is Tempo?

Tempo is a membership program for both new and seasoned opera-goers ages 21-39, providing intimate and memorable experiences through Minnesota Opera. For a $50 membership fee, Tempo members enjoy steep ticket discounts (only $30!) to Minnesota Opera productions and access to exclusive events and after parties.

Do you have your tickets yet?

The 2012-2013 season includes Nabucco, Anna Bolena, and the world premiere of Doubt (to name a few), tickets are going fast! 3-, 4- and 5-opera packages are also still available. A subscription is the only way to guarantee your seat at sure-to-be blockbusters like Turandot and Doubt. Be sure to visit our website at mnopera.org/tempo or call the ticket office at 612-333-6669 to join Tempo and reserve your tickets today.

Join us for a Silver & Gold celebration!

Raise a glass to our 10th and 50th anniversaries of Tempo and the Minnesota Opera, we will be celebrating in style on Saturday, September 22nd. First, the Nabucco Opening Night performance at the Ordway, and then head to the James J. Hill Library for a glamorous evening at our Silver & Gold Soirée.

Soirée tickets can be purchased for $25 and, as this is a “black tie admired but not required” event, we’ll be watching to see who wears it best!

Until Next Time…

Be sure to follow our blog posts every Tuesday throughout the season. We’ll be highlighting our events, giving behind-the-curtain looks at Minnesota Opera productions and introducing you to the members of Tempo (that’s right, some of you!).

Until then, hats off to you, opera lovers. We’ll see you next time.

Want to get more involved with Tempo? Join the board of directors or a committee 2012-2013 season! More info at http://www.mnopera.org/tempo/Board The application deadline is tomorrow, February 29th.