Sometimes,I just don't get these scholars-"bourgeois public sphere" indeed! All any of them had to do was read a JA(or Fanny Burney)novel to see what kind of public entertainments were available(and socially acceptable). The well-known Court of St. James,frequented by Sir William Lucas,the italian opera attended by the Elliots,assemblies where Catherine Norland & Mrs. Allen wished they had some aquintance-capitol,capitol!

Interesting to note that while public performances were enjoyed at the theater,private theaticals were considered potentially improper for women(so Edmund was right after all!) and that one's behavior at such an outing as an opera could reflect badly on your character(As the Duchess of Devonshire's own mother was quick to point out). Perhaps,Anne's attentions to both Capt. Wentworth & Mr. Elliot at the opera stirred up quite a few rumors:)!