As appreciated as Italy is for its rich history, art, and cuisine, it’s equally revered for its treasure trove of operatic performances. When visiting this cultural wonderland with your children, opera should be on your itinerary.
Italy’s operas are nothing less than grand spectacles, seamlessly fusing melodious music, riveting drama, and larger-than-life performances on scale par excellence. They are perfect educational cum entertainment outings for kids, making them a truly enriching experience. We have compiled a list of a few operas you should see with the kids in Italy.
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Grab Opera Tickets in Rome
Rome, teeming with historical wonders, also houses some of the most spectacular opera venues. It’s a treat to snag opera tickets in Rome and introduce your children to the cultural phenomenon of Italian opera. Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, Rome’s premier and one of the most esteemed opera houses, stages various operas catering to different age groups.
Operas like “The Magic Flute” by Mozart, with its enchanting story filled with magic, heroes, villains, and easy-to-follow music, can delight children. Not only will they enjoy the performance, but they’ll also be captivated by the stunning architecture and grandeur of the theatre itself.
In the Footsteps of Verdi – Parma
Italy’s great opera composer, Giuseppe Verdi, hailed from Parma, making it a popular destination for seasoned opera lovers and first-timers. Parma’s Teatro Regio offers a “Verdi for Kids” program, which organizes notable productions of Verdi’s operas tailored explicitly for young audiences.
Brimming with engaging narratives and captivating music, these performances make Verdi’s work accessible and enjoyable for kids. Watching one of these performances in the city of the Maestro himself would undoubtedly be a memorable experience for the whole family.
The Stunning La Scala, Milan
A trip to Italy is complete with visiting the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala in Milan. The opera house has an extensive repertoire of productions suitable for children, including many classical fairy tale adaptations. A show at La Scala is a fabulous way to steep your kids in Italian culture while keeping them entertained. Remember to book your seats in advance, as it’s a busy venue year-round.
Explore Venice’s La Fenice
Not only is the Teatro La Fenice one of the best museums in Venice, but it’s also among the most famous opera houses in the world. Along with the regular adult-oriented opera program, they frequently showcase productions for young audiences. Operas like Cinderella and The Barber of Seville, filled with comedy and easy-on-the-ear tunes, are only some kid-friendly ones to look forward to.
A Visit to Florence’s Opera di Firenze
This ultra-modern theatre in Florence offers a well-rounded experience of Italian opera. Their ‘Opera for Youngsters’ program is replete with fun and educational performances for young visitors. The productions—popular comic operas and lighter classics—are performed in Italian but usually have English subtitles, so even non-Italian speakers will be able to follow the narrative.
Operas You Should See With the Kids in Italy – Opera Festivals
For a fun twist on the traditional way of experiencing opera, consider attending Italian opera festivals during the summer. They offer a wonderful outdoor experience under the Italian sun, easy and relaxing for children.
The Rossini Opera Festival, held annually in Pesaro—Rossini’s birthplace—includes operas suitable for children and young people. Similarly, the Macerata Opera Festival maintains a packed schedule of kid-friendly performances every season.
As the opera lifts the curtain, allowing your children to embark upon an enchanting and educational journey through music and drama, they will learn to appreciate arts and culture in a new light. Including the opera on your family trip will create unforgettable memories that will resonate with your kids for a lifetime.
