This manual is designed to be a single source for answering questions which may occur in bringing the production of an opera to the stage; questions such as "How many clarinets are in the orchestra?", "How many orchestra members appear onstage?", "What is the usual running time?", and "Are any special effects or ballet choreography required?". This and other information, such as who owns the rights and when the opera was premiered, is provided for more than 550 operas - the guide may serve equally as a companion for opera-lovers.