The dictionary defines opera glasses as  "a small binocular telescope used at the opera, in theaters, etc."  Since the 1800's operagoers and theatre lovers having been using opera glasses to enhance their theater experience.  Though once doesn't need a degree in science it is always helpful to know how to pick a good pair of opera glasses. 

But before we do that lets learn a little about opera glasses and the way they are made.  The construction is very simple that consists of convex and concave lenses placed between a viewing tube.  As far as technology goes there hasn't been much change since Galileo built his first telescope.  Opera glasses also known as theater glasses today are built with the same model as Galileo's first telescope.     So how does one pick a pair of opera glasses?

When picking a pair of opera glasses the most important thing to remember is that the opera glasses bring the stage up close to you.  So why not just bring a pair of binoculars to the opera or theater.  The magnification of the opera glasses is generally 3X which is just right to bring the facial expressions and movements alive for the theater goer.  When the magnification is too much then the whole stage may not be visible as as everyone knows there are multiple things going on at the same time so you don't want your frame of vision to be cut or zeroed into one area.  There are opera glasses which come with fixed magnification too.  With these opera glasses then one can't adjust the magnification. 

Theater glasses with fixed magnification have their own advantages.  Instead of the wheel that adjusts the magnification a discreet light can be in built into the opera glasses so one can read the handbill and follow along whenever one desires.  The inbuilt light is a great feature and is a hands free activation which makes it very simple to use.  Other features that are built into opera glasses are handles, also known as lorgnettes.

Lorgnettes are handles on the opera glasses which make it easy to view the performance.  The handle normally are telescoping and can be adjusted to different sizes.  The lorgnettes add elegance and functionality to the opera glasses.  Another with stylish and chic accessory which makes the opera glasses very functional are opera glasses with cords.    The cords allow the hands to be free and the opera glasses can be hung around the neck during the performance when you are not using it and then it is easily accessible when you want to use them again.

Opera glasses come in a variety of colors, styles and finishes.  With modern technology and mass production it has become so easy to get opera glasses at an affordable price.  Most of the opera glasses are below $100 and there is a large variety of styles to choose from.  Infact opera glasses on sale are so affordable that you can buy a few to match every style and mood. 

Opera glasses are small and compact and are a great fashion accessory for the theater, opera, ballet or symphony.  Why miss out on even the slightest of expressions or gestures.  Make every seat the best seat in the house with a pair of opera glasses.  Combine function and fashion and make a statement while you have the best of times at the theater.