When I step into the teahouse it is like entering another world. There are magical scents in the air that lift my spirits in anticipation of the opera. I take a seat near the middle of the theatre and breathe deeply of the atmosphere. Green tea is served and I nibble on some fruit, looking around curiously at the other members of the audience. What really draws my attention is the elegant golden draperies which will soon open upon the first scene!

I think I am ready, yet it still takes my breath away when the curtain draws back to reveal the ethereal view of the Opera! I am not the only one who gasps with amazement and pleasure. The entrance of the two Snakes onto the stage is accompanied by the hissing sound of everyone's astonishment.

Losing myself in the story, I let the surroundings of the theatre fade away as I am wholly captivated by the Opera.