Operas are part drama, so whenever I first attend or watch an opera that is new to me, I treat them like I would a play or film, which means I don’t read the synopsis or libretto ahead of time, and I utilize sub/surtitles. Second, third, fourth, etc. viewings are another matter.
You would like Kabuki. I can only understand bits and pieces of the language, however. If you pay attention you can follow along. Good stuff.