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Architecture · Dresden, Saxônia
Semperoper
Opera house on the Theaterplatz, home of the Saxon State Opera and the Staatskapelle Dresden. It hosted premieres by Wagner and Richard Strauss and offers guided tours.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Semperoper
The Semperoper is Dresden’s opera house, on the Theaterplatz, on the banks of the Elbe. It is named after the architect Gottfried Semper, who designed the first theatre, opened in 1841. After a fire in 1869, the building was rebuilt based on Semper’s design and completed in 1878 under the direction of his son, Manfred.
The theatre has a long tradition of premieres: Wagner operas such as The Flying Dutchman and Tannhäuser, and Richard Strauss works like Salome, Elektra and The Knight of the Rose had their first performances there. It is home to the Saxon State Opera, the ballet and the Staatskapelle Dresden, one of the world’s oldest orchestras.
The 1945 bombings left only the outer walls standing. The reconstruction, carried out in East Germany, was completed on 13 February 1985, exactly forty years after the attack, and the reopening featured Der Freischütz by Carl Maria von Weber.
Those not attending a performance can see the interior on guided tours, which show the foyer, the staircases and the horseshoe-shaped auditorium. In the square in front stands the equestrian statue of King John of Saxony.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour for the guided tour; a performance lasts between 2 and 4 hours.
Best time
Guided tours usually take place during the day at times without rehearsals. The opera and concert season typically runs from September to July. At dusk, the façade seen from the riverbank is attractive for photos.
How to get there
It is on the Theaterplatz, next to the Zwinger and opposite the Hofkirche. The tram stops at Theaterplatz.
Tip
Tickets for popular operas sell out in advance: buy them through the official channel. Guided tours also have limited spaces and times change according to the schedule; check before you go. Formal dress is not required, but the audience typically dresses smartly.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Semperoper
Can you visit the Semperoper without seeing a performance?
Yes, via guided tours, which usually take place during the day. Times depend on rehearsals—check before you go.
What is the Semperoper season?
The season for operas, ballets and concerts usually runs from September to July, with a summer break.
Do I need formal wear to go to the opera?
There is no strict formal dress code, but the audience tends to dress smartly. For an evening performance, smart casual or light formal wear is sufficient.