Opera and ballet in Prague: how to attend

Prague is a good city to see an opera or ballet in, and not only because of the buildings. There are several historic houses, most within walking distance of one another, and a full calendar through the main season. Prices move, so none are quoted here.

The houses

Three houses carry the load. The National Theatre on the embankment is the flagship, with opera, ballet and drama. The Estates Theatre in the Old Town belongs to the same organisation and is where Mozart's Don Giovanni premiered in 1787. The State Opera, near the main railway station, is part of the same group, with its own repertoire and season.

Concert halls add opera in concert form and the odd ballet guest. Our guides to the Rudolfinum and the Municipal House cover the main ones.

What the season looks like

The main season runs through autumn, winter and spring, with a pause in high summer. Each house publishes its programme in advance. Because this is repertory theatre, the same production comes back across weeks and seasons, so you can often find a classic without much waiting.

For something Czech, look for Smetana, Dvořák or Janáček, whose work is central to the national repertoire. For something you may know already, Mozart, Verdi and Puccini appear regularly. Ballet programmes mix classic full-length works with modern pieces.

Language

Operas are usually sung in the original language, so Czech works are sung in Czech and Italian ones in Italian. Surtitles are often offered in Czech and English, but it depends on the production, so check the listing. Ballet has no language problem. For drama, confirm English surtitles before you book.

Booking

Use the official box offices and websites. They show the auditorium plan, availability and seat category. Resale sites and street sellers around the Old Town sell at higher prices and carry the risk of invalid or duplicate tickets. If a show is sold out, look again closer to the date, because returns sometimes appear.

Think about the view. In a historic horseshoe-shaped house, side boxes can have a restricted sightline, which the seat plan usually notes. Cheaper upper seats may see only part of the stage but hear it well. Read the notes on the plan before you click.

What to wear and how to behave

There is no formal dress code, but you'll see plenty of smart clothes. Smart casual is safe. Shorts and sports kit will make you stand out. Arrive at least 20 minutes early, since late entry is controlled and you may wait for a break. Switch off your phone and save your applause for the end of a piece or an act.

Cloakrooms are standard, and often compulsory for coats and bags. Programme booklets are usually on sale.

Do this today

Open the National Theatre and State Opera sites, compare the next fortnight, pick one title you already know and book it. The cheap seats are a fair way to find out whether you'll go again.