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Duration

2 hrs 35 mins with interval

Closing Date

Until February 18, 2025

Age limit

Suitable for 12+

Why Watch Mary, Queen of Scots?

  • Witness operatic history with Queen's Medal recipient Thea Musgrave's Mary, Queen of Scots, brought to the West End by the English National Opera.
  • Past productions garnered rave reviews, with critics calling it a "well-deserved success" and a "great jubilant success."
  • The cast includes former ENO Harewood Artists Alex Otterburn as James Stewart, Earl of Moray and Nicky Spence as James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell, and Alastair Miles as Lord Gordon.
  • Don't miss your chance – Mary, Queen of Scots reigns supreme for just 2 London shows. Get your tickets before the curtain falls!

Mary, Queen of Scots is a rarely performed masterpiece that dazzled audiences during its 1977 Edinburgh premiere. The opera itself holds a special place in operatic history – it was the first of Musgrave's four operas based on historical figures, and she crafted both the music and the libretto, creating a truly singular operatic experience. Mary will be played by American operatic soprano Heidi Stober, best known for performing with the New York Philharmonic. Immerse yourself in a story that's equal parts Shakespearean drama and a rock n' roll rollercoaster. Having received praise for its "immediately attractive" music and "very effective" storytelling (The Sunday Times), this operatic experience promises a captivating journey through history, brought to life through the power of song.

Storyline

Returning from France, Mary Stuart, the Queen of Scotland, navigates a web of rivals vying for power and influence: her ambitious half-brother James, the impetuous Lord Darnley, and the enigmatic Earl of Bothwell. She seeks to secure her reign through marriage, but each relationship brings unforeseen complications. James, fueled by ambition, plots against her. Darnley's drunken jealousy leads to a brutal murder. As Mary navigates love, loss, and betrayal, she fights to retain her power and secure the future of her son. Will she find strength and unity, or will her reign be tragically cut short?

Cast & Crew

Leading Roles: Heidi Stober as Mary, Queen of Scotland, Alex Otterburn as James Stewart, Earl of Moray, Rupert Charlesworth as Lord Darnley, Nicky Spence as Earl of Bothwell

Conductor: Joana Carneiro

Librettist: Thea Musgrave

Top songs

Thea Musgrave weaves elements of Scottish folk music and French court dances into the operatic tapestry, transporting the audience directly into Mary's world. Prepare to be swept away by soaring soprano lines that capture Mary's regal spirit, alongside evocative orchestral textures that paint a vivid picture of 16th-century Scotland.

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 Mary, Queen of Scots voucher. Please display the same on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID.

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    Cancellation & Refunds

    • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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