English
English
3 hr 50 min with 2 intervals
Language
Currency
DURATION
CLOSING DATE
Until November 29, 2025
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for 12+ yrs
from
$56.40
AboutVenueTickets
Why watch Arabella?
- Set in 19th-century Vienna, Richard Strauss’s romantic opera blends comedy and heartfelt drama as Arabella searches for love amid changing social tides.
- The Met revival stars Rachel Willis-Sørensen in her role debut, Louise Alder in her house debut, and Tomasz Konieczny, conducted by Nicholas Carter.
- Strauss’s refined score features soaring soprano lines, lush orchestration, and a moving final scene that communicates love through music alone.
- Otto Schenk’s lavish production, with Schneider-Siemssen’s detailed sets and Canonero’s costumes, recreates Vienna’s glittering ballrooms and salons.
- Hailed by The New York Times as “as beautiful as one could hope,” this limited run is a standout of New York’s opera season. Book your Arabella opera tickets in New York now!
Richard Strauss’s Arabella premiered in Dresden in 1933 as his final collaboration with librettist Hugo von Hofmannsthal and has since become a beloved work for its elegant blend of romance, wit, and lyrical beauty. The story follows Arabella, a young noblewoman searching for love on her own terms amid the fading grandeur of 1860s Vienna. Otto Schenk’s production at the Metropolitan Opera House revives the work’s old-world glamour with richly detailed sets and costumes, immersing audiences in the Viennese world of debutante balls and noble intrigues. This season stars Rachel Willis-Sørensen as Arabella, Louise Alder as Zdenka, and Tomasz Konieczny as Mandryka. Nicholas Carter conducts Strauss’s sumptuous score, known for its intricate soprano lines and emotional depth.
Storyline
Set in Vienna around 1860, Arabella centers on the Waldner family, members of the declining aristocracy trying to maintain their status in a modernizing society. Arabella, their eldest daughter, is expected to make a wealthy match to restore the family’s fortunes. But when a mysterious suitor named Mandryka enters her life, her vision of love and duty is challenged. With its blend of romantic ideals and social realities, Strauss’s opera unfolds through lyrical arias, glittering ballroom scenes, and intimate moments of personal awakening. What path will Arabella choose? Book your tickets to Arabella opera in New York to witness the answer unfold live.
Show timings
Show timings for Arabella may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & crew
- Leading roles: Rachel Willis-Sørensen as Arabella, Louise Alder as Zdenka, Tomasz Konieczny as Mandryka, Pavol Breslik as Matteo, Karen Cargill as Adelaide, Brindley Sherratt as Waldner, and Julie Roset as Fiakermilli.
- Director: Otto Schenk
- Producer: Metropolitan Opera
- Written by: Hugo von Hofmannsthal
- Production: Otto Schenk
- Composer: Richard Strauss
- Lyrics: Hugo von Hofmannsthal (German libretto)
- Set designer: Günther Schneider-Siemssen
- Costume designer: Milena Canonero
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
Age & content guide
- This show is suitable for ages 12 years and above.
- Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Metropolitan Opera House Read more
The Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center opened in 1966, replacing the original “Old Met” on Broadway. Designed by architect Wallace Harrison, the 3,850-seat venue is the largest repertory opera house in the world and a centerpiece of New York’s cultural scene. Its modernist façade with five soaring arches leads into a grand lobby adorned with two monumental Marc Chagall murals, golden starburst chandeliers, and sweeping staircases. Renowned for its state-of-the-art acoustics and massive stage machinery, the Met has hosted legendary productions, world premieres, and performances by the greatest voices in opera history.
The Metropolitan Opera House seating chart will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
- Address: 30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
- Subway: The nearest subway station is 66th Street–Lincoln Center, served by the 1 line
- Bus: The M66 bus (West 66th Street / Columbus Avenue) stops nearby
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: Restrooms, bar, cloakroom, concession kiosks, souvenir shop, elevator
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, accessible seating (companion seating), accessible restrooms, assistive listening devices
Additional information
- Note: Please note that video cameras will be in operation during the November 18 and November 22 performances as part of the Met’s Live in HD series of cinema transmissions.
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets redemption
- You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
- Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!
Cancellation & refunds
- Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.
More reads
Frequently asked questions about Arabella
What age is Arabella appropriate for?
The opera does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 12 years and above.
Where is the opera playing in New York?
The show is playing at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York.
What is Arabella about?
Set in 1860s Vienna, it follows Arabella, a young noblewoman navigating love, family expectations, and societal change in the waning days of the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy.
How long does the opera run for?
The running time is 3 hours and 50 minutes with two intermissions.
Who are the main stars of the opera?
Rachel Willis-Sørensen makes her role debut as Arabella, Louise Alder debuts as Zdenka, and Tomasz Konieczny stars as Mandryka.
Are there translations or surtitles available?
Yes, Met Titles are displayed on individual seat-back screens in English, German, and Spanish, so you can follow along comfortably.
Why is this production significant?
It revives Otto Schenk’s classic staging, with Günther Schneider-Siemssen’s elegant sets and Milena Canonero’s costumes.
Is this opera suitable for first-time opera-goers?
Yes. Its romantic story, beautiful music, and elegant staging make it accessible, even for those new to German opera.