FABULOUS BACKSTAGE TOUR AT THE METROPOLITAN OPERA HOUSE

On November 20, 2014, preceding a visit to tour the Metropolitan Opera, thirty members were conveyed by coach to enjoy a delightful “brunch/lunch” at Son Cubano in West New York, New Jersey, a beautiful restaurant on the Hudson commanding New York vistas and offering an extensive menu. The restaurant is designed to evoke pictures of 1950’s Havana, accompanied by soft Salsa music.

After a ride to Lincoln Center on the Upper West Side, we were ushered into the lobby of the Metropolitan Opera House where, led by docents, we were divided into small groups.  We enjoyed an exclusive, fascinating and extensive look at what it takes to stage a production at the Metropolitan Opera.  We luxuriated  in the opulent orchestra seats in the auditorium and witnessed scene preparations for that night’s performance of La Bohème, while learning the history of The Metropolitan Opera House. This was followed by visits backstage and to the scenery and carpentry workshops, costume, make-up and wig departments, music studios, rehearsal rooms and dressing rooms.

A long day, but a wonderful one was the consensus.

Click to enlarge each photo.