Don t feel you have to dress formally. Some people enjoy this aspect of opera going since it s generally considered weird to wear a formal gown or tux to the movies or local sports game. Use your common sense. Don t wear jeans, shorts or anything else you d wear to the beach or a barbeque. Be tasteful in how much skin you reveal and leave your baseball cap at home.
Many opera companies offer informal tutorials before the performance.
This is a chance to learn about the story you are about to see and hear, the composer and the opera company performing. Buy a program. This is another useful tool for learning about the opera you will be experiencing. Knowing the cast of characters can help enhance your enjoyment. Let the music flow over you.