Opera experience?

We%26#39;re taking the kids to Paris at half term.

I%26#39;ve got most things sorted out like me and the 10 year old boy spending a day at Euro Disney whilst the wife and 12 year old daughter go shopping.

One thing I%26#39;m wondering about is the Opera. The wife and I like to go in the UK and quite fancy the going to the Batille Opera to see La Boheme.

The only trouble is that its going to cost the best part of ��400 with the two children. I%26#39;d be happy to pay that for something outstanding but reluctant if its nothing better than what we get here.

Its a long shot I know but has anyone got any first hand experience the Bastille Opera and this show in particular?

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Hi, Not seen La Boheme there but have been to the Bastille a few times. 400 Euro seems very pricey for there (usually I have got tickets for a lot less), and unless you really want to go, or will hear someone you really want to, I%26#39;m not sure you would be getting something really special for your money. Although I like the Opera Bastille you can%26#39;t really say it is worth going for the surroundings etc., it has great acoustics and views from every seat but not really the same as going to Covent Garden or another historic opera house. I have always enjoyed it but wouldn%26#39;t probably wouldn%26#39;t pay that much unless a it was a really special event

Alison

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Thanks for the advice.

I%26#39;ll keep an eye out for cheap tickets and otherwise give it a miss.

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Hello Rays,

If you want to wait and take your chances, often you can get tickets right at the ticket office (either at the Bastille or Garnier for either house). We often can get seats for very little euros....when we first get to Paris.

I would suggest you make sure you do not go for the most inexpensive seats in the Bastille, though. They are way up on the sides, right and left and I think not good at all....just too high and they feel insecure, to me(they are maybe 10E). For La Boheme I have a feeling you could get some good seats for 30E each (and on up, moving closer maybe when the lights dim). Do check out the sales office when you first arrive.

At either house the troops permorming are usually of top quality. While not an older building, the Bastille is a beautiful opera house with great acostics, comfortable seating and nice facilities. It is huge. You can even get a sandwich at the break, along with drinks. Be sure to look for the Effel tower twinkling on the hour from the huge glass windows of the upper lobbies.

There is also a way to get tickets to sold out performances the night of the show (aside from the hackers out in front). You go to the main lobby and stand in a special line at least 45 minutes before the performance. They usually have quite a few tickets to sell for that night.

You will love it.

Bonne chance