Duration
2 hrs with interval
Closing Date
Until November 18, 2025
Age limit
Suitable for 18+ yrs
Why Watch Dead Man Walking?
- Catch Dead Man Walking at its London Coliseum premiere with English National Opera, celebrating 25 years, 70+ productions worldwide, and a reputation as one of the greatest operas of the 21st century!
- With a stirring score by Jake Heggie and lyrics by five-time Tony winner Terrence McNally, this powerful opera is based on the true story from Sister Helen’s acclaimed memoir.
- From best-selling memoir to Oscar-winning film, Dead Man Walking now hits the opera stage with Olivier-nominated mezzo-soprano Christine Rice and renowned baritone Michael Mayes.
- Follow a death row inmate’s final days in the most-performed new opera of the last 20 years. Book Dead Man Walking tickets to witness the drama unfold inside a high-security U.S. prison.
Dead Man Walking makes its way to the London Coliseum for a limited run, celebrating 25 years since its world premiere at the San Francisco Opera in 2000. Set behind the bars of a high-security United States prison, this opera is based on the Pulitzer-nominated best-selling 1993 memoir by Sister Helen Prejean, which also inspired the 1995 Oscar-winning film starring Sean Penn and Susan Sarandon. With a libretto by Tony Award-winning Terrence McNally, music by Musical America 2025 composer of the year Jake Heggie, and directed by Annilese Miskimmon, ENO’s Artistic Director, the production boasts complex storytelling with a haunting score. Called “easily the most performed contemporary opera of the twenty-first century” by the Metropolitan Opera, Dead Man Walking has travelled the globe with more than 70 productions. Now it’s your turn to witness it on stage, book your Dead Man Walking tickets today!
Storyline
As Joseph De Rocher awaits execution for the murder of two teenagers, Sister Helen Prejean steps in to offer spiritual guidance in his final days. As she gets to know him and hears the pain of the victims’ families, she’s forced to confront grief, guilt, and what compassion truly means in the face of violence. As the execution day draws closer, will she be able to get the confession that can bring peace to the families?
Show timings
Show timings for Dead Man Walking may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
- Leading roles: Michael Mayes as Joseph De Rocher, Christine Rice as Sister Helen Prejean, Sarah Connolly as Mrs Patrick De Rocher, Madeline Boreham as Sister Rose, Ronald Samm as Father Grenville, Olivia Rose Tringham as Sister Catherine, Amy Holyland as Sister Lillianne
- Book: Sister Helen Prejean
- Director: Annilese Miskimmon
- Music & lyrics: Jakie Heggie
- Librettist: Terrence McNally
- Set designer: Alex Eales
- Costume designer: Evie Gurney
- Lighting designer: D.M. Wood
- Movement & intimacy director: Imogen Knight
- Conductor: Kerem Hasan
Top songs
This gripping tale comes to life with Jake Heggie’s atmospheric score, featuring haunting melodies with sweeping orchestration. Known for its emotional depth, the music moves between quiet reflection and soaring drama. With standout arias like “He Will Gather Us Around” and “This Journey,” this album captures the full impact of one of the most emotionally complex stories ever performed.
Age Suitability
- This show is suitable for ages 18 and above.
- Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
- This show is performed in English with surtitles.
- Content warning: The show contains strong language and depictions of death, murder, and sexual violence.
- Most theatres are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.
London Coliseum
A multi-arts venue, The London Coliseum was designed by the renowned Theatre Architect, Frank Matcham. It opened in 1904 with the aspirations to become one of London's largest and most luxurious "family" variety theatres. Its original seating capacity is 2,939 people. English National Opera is a highly acclaimed opera company located at the London Coliseum. They are recognized internationally for their rich repertoire of innovative productions conducted by the world's greatest conductors and starring the best available singers. London Coliseum seating plan seating capacity: 2,939
The London Coliseum seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theatre.
Getting There
- Address: London Coliseum, St Martin's Ln, London WC2N 4ES, UK
- By metro:
Charing Cross and Leicester Square are the nearest stations served by the Northern, Piccadilly and Bakerloo Lines
- By train:
Charing Cross Train Station is the nearest station.
- By bus:
Buses servicing the area include Charing Cross Road (24, 29 and 176) and Charing Cross Station or Trafalgar Square (6, 9, 11, 15, 23, 87 and 91)
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Dining outlets, Cloak room, Souvenir shop
Accessibility: Elevator access, Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
You will receive an email with your Dead Man Walking voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid Photo Id for identification.
Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets starts from £13 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The show does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for individuals aged 18 and above.
The show is playing at the London Coliseum in London.
The show is about a nun who becomes the spiritual advisor to a death row inmate, confronting themes of justice, guilt, and forgiveness in the process.
The running time is 2 hours and 50 minutes with 1 intermission.
The main stars of the show are Christine Rice as Sister Helen Prejean and Michael Mayes as Joseph De Rocher.
The libretto for this opera was written by playwright Terrence McNally.
Yes, the show is based on Sister Helen Prejean's real-life memoir about her experiences as a spiritual advisor to death row inmates.
Yes, the opera is performed in English with surtitles.
The music for the show is composed by Jake Heggie. Catch a glimpse of the operatic score here.
