How to get to see the opera for a song

http://www.theguardian.com/music/2015/feb/15/how-get-see-opera-for-song

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I have some very good news for Charlotte Higgins and other potential lovers of opera (Wagner isn’t for everyone. Not at these prices, anyway, 13 February). I will be watching Bryn Terfel in the ENO production of Wagner’s Die Meistersinger from the Coliseum on Tuesday 24 February in my local cinema at a cost of £14 (see footnote). Last year I watched simultaneous broadcasts in high definition of operas fromboth Covent Garden and New York Metropolitan Opera at similar very low prices. Not only are these broadcasts great value but they offer a more rewarding experience than attending the theatre as you benefit from close-ups of the performance. One can never get such an intimate experience from even the most expensive seats in a theatre. Have a look at the web-sites for each of the opera houses for future broadcasts and enjoy the worlds best opera at derisory prices.John RipponDurham

• We shall be slumming it in the upper circle to watch Die Meistersinger at the ENO for a mere £57 each but will pay a similar amount to watch Arsenal at the weekend. While I confidently expect five hours of opera to be at least as good value as 90 minutes of football, I have the added satisfaction that the performers are paid more proportionately too.Roger HarrisonLetchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire

• The Arts Council sets strict criteria for awarding national portfolio funding status, two of which are a competent business plan and sound governance (Arts Council gives English National Opera last chance to improve, 13 February). The Arts Council awarded the ENO national portfolio status and a few months down the line tells it to get its house in order, citing business planning and corporate governance. The first thing that should be done is rigorous examination of the Arts Council itself, its culture and its competence to deliver a coherent arts funding system with artform policies.Chris HodgkinsLondon

• This footnote was added on 16 February 2015. In fact Bryn Terfel is appearing in the Royal Opera House production of Der fliegende Holländer on 24 February.