Boorish behaviour: UK audiences take up unwelcome tradition of booing at the opera

2026-01-29 - 18:21

Critics worry as heckling, such as that at a recent Royal Opera performance, is becoming more common Opera audiences pride themselves on knowing when – and how – to make noise. Cries of “bravo”, “brava” and “bravi” have become a celebrated part of the tradition, with shouted approval seen as evidence of connoisseurship. Booing, too, has a long history, and as a brave stand-in at the Royal Opera House found out on Tuesday night, its impact may sometimes seem a little blunter. Continue reading...