pt. one. A heady time: thousands of opera houses.
1. Signs of civilization ; 2. A time of change ; 3. Culture and the public
pt. two. On stage: performances, performers, and patrons. 4. Early struggles ; 5. Theater thrives ; 6. Celebrities and stars ; 7. Other entertainments and enlightenments ; 8. Music and opera ; 9. What the public wants
pt. three. In town: public hall and public roles. 10. Business connections ; 11. Public places and civic events ; 12. Challenges ; 13. Immigrants ; 14. Symbols of pride
pt. four. Born again: revived opera houses and their communities. 15. The phoenix rises ; 16. Successes ; 17. Engines for regeneration ; 18. Like family ; 19. Connecting again
Appendix: A listing of extant opera houses by state.
