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[kanjizai]

Quick question for anyone who has been to the New National theater in Tokyo. It looks as if it is a nice place so I think I should wear a Tuxedo, but I don't want to be over dressed. Could someone let me know what most people wear, if you have been? Thanks.

[GambateBingBangBOOM]

General rule of thumb for Western Art Music: wear a tux if it's opening night for the season, and possibly for the production. After that, it's sort of dress nicely, but a tux is overkill.
I haven't been to the ballet in Japan, though I've been a number of times in Canada.

If in doubt, ask someone else who's going. Or call them up and ask (or just go in sometime). Normally, blazer and dress pants is okay (tie is optional, but this is Japan, so...?). Suit is fine. You may see people in dressy chinos as well. Japan has really nice venues with professional performances even in rural areas, and you see the odd person show up in jeans to those (usually it's no-jeans, and most people are wearing cotton khaki / chino types of things).

[eIn0791207912]

The above seems okay, but here's what modern chivalry says:

Look at the ticket price. If it's over $50, then tux on opening night, suit and tie every night after. Preferably black. Coat and ties are reserved for PTA meetings and retirement dinners. Never the arts.

If the ticket is over a $100, always tux.

Of course these rules are fine for the ballet and the theater. For operas and symphonies, stick with a modest tux. No vest. Match the cummberbund to your bow tie.. Black leather wrist watch only. Think James Bond ala Sean Connery. Simple. Sophisticated. Cool.

Khaki's and brown leather shoes should be outlawed. Anyone caught wearing them, stoned to death. Nothing says tacky like khaki.