What you need for an operetta performance

An operetta performance needs more than costumes and sheet music. Your shopping list must cover the audience area, stage technology, printed materials, props, décor and refreshments for the interval or reception. Start with the expected audience size, then match chairs, glasses, programs and catering supplies to that number. Book or source technical equipment early, especially the piano, microphones, speakers and stage spotlights, because replacements are harder to find close to performance day.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Chairsqty 180
Tablesqty 10
Coat racksqty 4
Stoolsqty 6
Bollardsqty 8

Tableware

Water glassesqty 200
Wine glassesqty 120
Coffee cupsqty 120
Cake platesqty 120
Cutlery setsqty 120
Serving traysqty 12
Thermos flasksqty 8

Equipment

Piano
Microphonesqty 4
Microphone standsqty 4
Speakersqty 2
Mixer
Music standsqty 10
Extension cordsqty 6
Power stripsqty 8
Laptop
Printer

Lighting

Stage spotlightsqty 6
Work lightsqty 4

Decorations

Decor pieces
Backdrop cloth
Tableclothsqty 10
Flower arrangementsqty 6

Kitchen

Coffee machinesqty 3
Kettlesqty 3
Coolersqty 4
Cutting boardsqty 3
Kitchen knivesqty 4
Scissorsqty 4
Storage binsqty 10

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 8
Mop setsqty 2
Broomsqty 3
Dustpan and brushqty 3
Bucketsqty 4
Rubber glovesqty 6

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 4 packs
- Black tea - 4 boxes
- Herbal tea - 2 boxes
- Sugar - 2 kilograms
- Sweetener - 2 boxes
- Semi-skimmed milk - 12 liters
- Oat milk - 4 liters
- Still mineral water - 12 bottles
- Sparkling mineral water - 8 bottles
- Cola - 8 bottles
- Cola Zero - 6 bottles
- Sinas - 4 bottles
- Apple juice - 6 packs
- Grape juice - 4 cartons
- Alcohol-free wine - 6 bottles
- White wine - 8 bottles
- Red wine - 6 bottles
- Beer - 6 crates
- Bitter lemon - 3 bottles
- Tonic - 3 bottles
- Lemons - 2 kilograms
- Apples - 5 kilograms
- Grapes - 4 kilograms
- Bananas - 3 kilograms
- Mini sandwiches - 180 pieces
- White rolls - 80 pieces
- Whole wheat rolls - 60 pieces
- Mild cheese - 3 kilograms
- Aged cheese - 2 kilogram
- Ham - 2 kilograms
- Chicken breast slices - 2 kilograms
- Hummus - 1.5 kilograms
- Cucumbers - 2 kilograms
- Tomatoes - 2 kilograms
- Butter - 1 kilogram
- Mayonnaise - 2 bottles
- Mustard - 2 bottles
- Ketchup - 2 bottles
- Paprika chips - 8 bags
- Plain chips - 8 bags
- Salted peanuts - 3 kilogram
- Mixed nuts - 3 kilograms
- Cookies - 8 packs
- Cake - 8 pieces
- Bitterballen - 300 pieces
- Vegetarian snacks - 150 pieces
- Gluten-free sandwiches - 12 pieces
- Vegan sandwiches - 20 pieces
- Napkins - 500 pieces
- Cocktail sticks - 2 boxes
- Ice cubes - 20 kilograms
- Trash bags - 50 pieces
- Paper towels - 12 rolls
- Toilet paper - 48 rolls
- Dish soap - 3 bottles
- Hand soap - 6 dispensers
- All-purpose cleaner - 4 bottles
- Toilet cleaner - 4 bottles
- Sponges - 12 pieces
- Microfiber cloths - 20 pieces
- Tissues - 12 boxes

Tips

Count one chair per ticketed guest, then add 5–10% spare seating if the venue allows it. Arrange coat racks before invitations go out, particularly if the performance is held in colder weather.
Plan the technical setup around the venue rather than buying items at the last minute. Check that microphone stands, speakers, a mixer, extension cords and power strips are compatible and long enough for the stage layout.
Print programs and tickets at least 7 days before the performance. Order 5–10% more programs than confirmed guests so late registrations and damaged copies do not leave you short.
For interval refreshments, provide one water glass per guest and enough wine glasses, coffee cups, cake plates and cutlery sets for the planned service. Add serving trays and thermos flasks so drinks can be replenished without blocking the entrance.
Check costumes, props and décor during a rehearsal at least 3–5 days before the show. Repair damaged costumes, test the backdrop cloth and décor pieces, and keep work lights available for backstage changes.

Frequently asked questions

How many chairs do I need for an operetta performance?: Use one chair for every confirmed guest and add 5–10% spare chairs where space permits. For 100 guests, prepare 100 seats and ideally 5 to 10 additional chairs.
How many printed programs should I order?: Print one program per expected guest, plus 5–10% extra. For an audience of 120 people, prepare about 126 to 132 booklets.
What stage equipment is needed for an operetta performance?: A typical setup includes a piano, music stands, microphones, microphone stands, speakers and a mixer. Also check extension cords, power strips, a laptop if used for cues, and stage spotlights at least 7 days before the performance.
When should I check costumes and props?: Do the first complete check 3–5 days before the performance and repeat it during the technical rehearsal. Keep repairs, spare fasteners and all props together so missing items can be replaced before the audience arrives.

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