Frommer's Review
Completed in 1884, the Opera House is the crowning achievement of the famous Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl. It's easily Budapest's most famous performance hall, and an attraction in its own right. The lobby is adorned with Bertalan Székely's frescoes; the ceiling frescoes in the concert hall itself are by Károly Lotz. Guided tours of the Opera House leave daily at 3 and 4pm; the cost is 2,000 Ft ($9).
The splendid Opera House, home to both the State Opera and the State Ballet, possesses a rich history. A political scandal marked the opening performance in 1884: Ferenc Liszt had written a piece to be performed especially for the event, but when it was discovered that he had incorporated elements of the Rákóczi March, a patriotic Hungarian (and anti-Habsburg) melody, he was prevented from playing it. Gustav Mahler and Ferenc Erkel rank as the Opera House's most famous directors.
Hungarians adore opera, and a large percentage of seats are sold on a subscription basis; buy your tickets a few days ahead of time if you can. The season runs from mid-September to mid-June. Summer visitors, however, can take in the approximately 10 performances (both opera and ballet) during the Summer Operafest, in July or August. Seating capacity is 1,260. The box office is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11am till the beginning of the performance, or to 5pm. Sunday from 11am to 1pm and 4pm till the beginning of the performances. There are occasional weekend matinees selling for 300 Ft to 3,500 Ft ($1.50-$18).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
