Here are our top ten tips for a successful night at the opera in any order you wish.

10. Look the part in black tie and dazzling evening dress;

9. Purchase a disc of the opera and casually hum the main aria in the car on the way in;

8. Read the story of the opera beforehand and impress your partner with your superior knowledge;

7. Have a delectable pre-opera supper in a nice restaurant to set the right ambience for the evening;

6. Flash your 'Friends' top of the range tickets and sit comfortably in the Dress Circle;

5. Have a glass of champagne at the interval and confidently discuss the opera in style;

4. Return to your seat and revel in the decadent atmosphere
of Rigoletto or the exotic Middle Eastern flavour of Samson & Dalila;

3. Suggest, on impulse, a horse and carriage ride around St. Stephens Green;

2. Have a coffee and a crêpe suzette in a dimly lit bistro;

1. Go home with a smile on your face feeling happy and invigorated after a wonderful night out;