opera and dinner or concert and dinner

Russ, that depends entirely on your own preferences, and also what is being performed at that time. Personally, I wouldn't bother with a package, but organise my own dinner beforehand (the opera will commence latish I think) with supper afterwards. Enjoy the evening, whichever you choose.

The only comment with regard to the opera is that keep in mind you won't get the benefit of the English supertitles. If you are not a big opera fan, this can seem a bit much. Make sure to take a synopsis of the story with you.

I've seen operas in a number of cities in Europe and it is generally a nice experience if you like opera. If opera is not your thing, I'd suggest the concert; they are usually shorter. I made the mistake of going to an opera in Budapest with a friend who was not an opera fan. She came along because she knew I liked opera, but it was torture for her ... and it ended up being torture for me because she complained about it the whole next day.

I agree with Pat, don't bother with a package. All you need to do is to decide on which program appeals to you, find out the location and check with RS for a great restaurant a vicino.

We like classical music and while in Florence attended a few concerts (free/donation) held in various churches. They were maybe an hour or so long. One featured opera excerpts, another a small ensemble, another a soloist. The TI office provided us with the information.