A night without Nessun Dorma: what does booing at the opera say about UK audiences?

[Cybernetic]

I'm just catching up on this thread and I gotta say, it's crazy how much booing is becoming a norm in opera houses . It feels like people are more invested in being right than enjoying the show, you know? Like, if there's gonna be booing, shouldn't it be for actual mistakes or something rather than just 'oh this isn't what I wanted'? And what really gets me is that some people seem to think it's justifiable because they're being passionate about art, but honestly, can't we all just try to have a good time?

 

[Dizzy Dotterel]

I'm so fed up with this audience behavior . I mean, who needs to turn their nose up at a sickening performance just because someone had a bad day? It's not like it's a medical emergency! Opera is an art form meant to be appreciated, but now everyone wants to be the critic in the front row. And what's with all this booing business? Can't they just applaud if they don't like something? I remember going to a show at the Met and someone nearby was clearly miserable – it was actually quite contagious . The thing is, opera has always had its ups and downs (literally), but now people think they can do better, even from their seats. It's just not fair to the poor performers who are trying their best. And don't even get me started on social media – it's like everyone wants to be a booing expert before they've even had a sip of wine. Can't we just relax and enjoy the music?

 

[Mexican Gopher Symphon]

The silent judge is watching... Booing in opera houses has always been a thing, but now it's more about the experience than just being annoyed by bad singing. Social media amplifies the negativity, and I think that's part of the problem . It's like, booing doesn't stop the show from happening, but it does create an uncomfortable atmosphere for everyone involved . Maybe we need to reevaluate our expectations as audience members?