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New York City, New York / Theaters and music

Metropolitan Opera House

The world's largest repertory opera house, located in Lincoln Center, is a global beacon of performing arts home to the Metropolitan Opera Company and the American Ballet Theatre.

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Metropolitan Opera House
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What is the Metropolitan Opera House known for?

It is the largest repertory opera house in the world and is home to the Metropolitan Opera Company. It is also known for its award-winning series of live movie theater transmissions that broadcast productions to cinemas globally.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets start at $25, and more than one-third of the tickets are available for under $100.

When are performances held?

Performances run six days a week from September through May.

Are there tours available?

Yes, the Metropolitan Opera Guild conducts backstage tours during the opera season. These tours include visits to the stage area, dressing rooms, rehearsal rooms, and the carpentry and scenic shops.

Who designed the building and when did it open?

The theater was designed by architect Wallace K. Harrison and opened in 1966, replacing the original 1883 opera house.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Metropolitan Opera House is a cornerstone of the Lincoln Center complex in Manhattan. Designed by architect Wallace K. Harrison, this iconic venue opened its doors in 1966. It was built to replace the original 1883 opera house that once stood at the intersection of Broadway and 39th Street, marking a new era for the company's architectural presence in New York City. As the largest repertory opera house in the world, the facility boasts a total capacity of 3,975 people. This massive scale includes 175 dedicated standing-room spaces to ensure as many patrons as possible can experience the performances. While it serves as the primary home for the Metropolitan Opera Company, the house also hosts the American Ballet Theatre during the summer months. Visitors can experience world-class singers live through a season that typically runs six days a week from September through May. Beyond the stage, the Metropolitan Opera Guild offers backstage tours during the season. These guided walks provide a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the theater, including visits to the dressing rooms, rehearsal rooms, the stage area, and the scenic and carpentry shops. To make high art accessible, the Met offers a ticketing program where prices start at $25. More than one-third of all tickets are available for under $100. For those unable to visit New York, the house produces an award-winning series of live movie theater transmissions that broadcast productions from the New York stage to cinemas across the globe.

Visitor tips

  • Check the official website for tickets starting at $25 to experience a performance affordably.
  • Plan your visit between September and May to catch the main performance season.
  • Book a backstage tour with the Metropolitan Opera Guild to see the carpentry and scenic shops.
  • Wear dressy-casual attire if attending a performance to match the venue's prestige.

Nearby context

The Metropolitan Opera House is situated within the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in Manhattan's ZIP code 10023, placing it in the heart of the city's premier cultural district.

Sources

Evidence and links