I am going to Italy on May 13 - May 28th. I will be in Venice, Florence, Rome, and Sorrento. Can anyone tell me where to best catch my first opera? Thanks.

If you are not a fan and looking for an "authentic" experience... could be dicey. the Fenice in Venice burned down awhile back and the Italians are still dithering over its restoration last I heard. Current performances are in a tent. Not terribly atmospheric, which is part of the experience. Don't know if there is opera in sorrento... but since the time frame is so short I would check with the concierge in your hotels. If the hotels are modest without this service, go to one of the big hotels in town and see if they can give advice. (a little tip might help.)

The San Carlo Opera House in Naples would be the closest place to Sorrento for Opera. It's also the most beautiful Opera House among the cities you mentioned.

I like this site:<BR><BR>www.operabase.com

Thank you David for the info on that WONDERFUL site! Have bookmarked it.