Costume Party At The Opera

Do you ever wonder what happens to the elaborate costumes the performers wear after the opera has closed? I must admit, I certainly hadn’t — except that a few years ago, there was a beautiful exhibition of costumes worn during various operas and ballets on show at the Opéra Garnier. it was impressive to say the least — the luxurious fabrics, the sequined and jeweled appliqués, the feathers, the colors, the design, the construction! We were all wowed.

Now, the opportunity has come once again to lavish on such a spectable, but this time, not in the form of an exhibition, but as the sale of 1000 costumes from the National Opera of Paris — capes, tunics, togas, jackets, military uniforms and other costumes from past operatic productions, which were manufactured by the Ateliers de Couture de l’Opéra National de Paris between 1960 and 2000.

Entrance is free to the public on Saturday December 13th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ateliers Berthier, 26-32 Boulevard Berthier, 75017 Paris. So, no excuses to miss it — perfect after a morning session at Parler Parlor French English Conversation Group. Who knows, I may come home with a something perfect for New Year’s Eve or next Halloween!

If you haven’t ever visited the Opera Garnier for a performance or tour, then put this on your list of must-do’s in Paris. A visit is free to the museum/library, to see the “grand escalier” and the rotunda everyday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except January 1st and May 1st. Visits to the theater are normally 6 Euros and 3 Euros for seniors, unemployed and under 19 years old. For artistic or technical reasons, the theater is sometimes closed to the public. Free guided tours are available.

Opéra Garnier
Place de l’Opéra
75009 Paris
Métro: Opéra
RER: Auber
Parking: Galeries Lafayette, Bd Haussmann

For more information, visit the official site of the Opera National de Paris, telephone: 01.41.10.08.10 or email [email protected]

A la prochaine…

Adrian Leeds
Editor, Parler Paris
E-mail: [email protected]

P.S. Parler Parlor French English Conversation is closed December 24, 2003 – January 2, 2004 for Christmas, reopening Saturday January 3, 2004… then plan on coming for the Annual King Cake Party January 20th where we’ll share in traditional Galettes des Rois and you’ll have an opportunity to save up to 20 Euros on a membership card. http://www.parlerparlor.com