Going to the Opera

The KiMo Theatre

The Historic KiMo Theatre is a unique 1927 Pueblo Deco style vaudeville and movie theatre in downtown Albuquerque that is owned by the City of Albuquerque and operated by the City’s Cultural Services Department. Opera Southwest is excited to be the KiMo’s principal tenant. Hundreds of tourists visit the KiMo Theatre each year to view its elaborate Pueblo Indian ornamentation and the famous Von Hassler murals. The theatre was renovated and reopened to the public in 2000, featuring artwork in the auditorium as well as reconstructions of the original proscenium arch and main curtain that returned the theatre to its original grandeur.

The KiMo Theatre is located at 423 Central Ave. NW, on the corner of 5th Street and Central Avenue in downtown Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Parking

Parking is most available in the 5th & Copper parking garage directly north of the KiMo Theatre. There is also a parking lot on 6th and Central that is one block from the Theatre. On street parking meters are available in the surrounding blocks north and south of the Theatre on Copper and Gold.
While the KiMo has no official drop-off area for passengers, the sidewalk on 5th Street at the west side of the building can usually be used. The KiMo asks that you please do not attempt to drop off passengers from the traffic lane directly in front of the theatre.

Etiquette

When to Arrive
All Opera Southwest performances begin at 8:00 p.m. sharp for evening performances and 2:00 p.m. for Sunday matinees. Out of respect for the performers and for patrons who have arrived on time, latecomers (as well as people leaving the auditorium during a performance) will be seated at the discretion of the Lobby Manager.

What on Earth Will I Wear?

It’s Burque, so as with any event, anything goes. For many, an evening at the Opera gives them an opportunity to dress up in their fancy best and have a night out on the town. Others choose to wear suits and dresses, and still others prefer to go a bit more casual. Most importantly, be comfortable and make the choice of what most suits you!

When Should I Clap?

The performers love to hear your applause! It lets them know that you’re into the show and having a good time. However, if it seems like more of a shift in the music than a conclusion, it’s probably a good idea to wait until a definitive end comes before you exhibit your enjoyment by clapping. If you’re unsure, just see what everyone else is doing. The rest of the audience will usually let you know when the moment is right.

Personal Electronic Devices

As a courtesy to the artists and other audience members, please silence all pagers, cell phones, etc. while in the theatre. The performers and your fellow patrons appreciate the consideration.

Supertitles

For all productions not sung in English, Opera Southwest uses supertitles, which are quick and easy translations projected above the stage. Supertitles ensure you won’t miss any of the jokes or action, regardless of the opera’s original language.