Duration
2 hrs 50 mins with 1 interval
Closing Date
Until December 6, 2025
Age limit
Suitable for 15+ yrs
Why Watch Partenope?
- A riot of romance, identity twists, and gender-bending disguises, Partenope transforms Handel’s baroque comedy into a surreal 1920s romp full of sharp humour and theatrical flair.
- Christopher Alden’s Olivier Award-winning production, first staged in 2008, has travelled from London to major opera houses in Madrid, San Francisco, and New York, earning acclaim worldwide.
- A cast of fast-rising talents, led by soprano Nardus Williams, recipient of the Rising Talent award at the 2022 International Opera Awards—brings nuance and energy to this witty tale of romance, revenge, and revelation.
- With glittering flapper-era costumes, a surrealist art salon setting, and Handel’s lush score at the core, this revival fuses visual charm with musical brilliance.
- Running for a strictly limited engagement at the London Coliseum, this is your chance to catch one of ENO’s most inventive revivals—book your tickets to the Partenope opera in London now!
Partenope is one of Handel’s boldest and most playful operas, and ENO’s revival reimagines it in the chic, surrealist world of 1920s Paris. Directed by Olivier Award-winner Christopher Alden, this English-language production takes Handel’s first comic opera and infuses it with elegance, irony, and a stylised sense of fun. With non-stop parties, flowing cocktails, and stylish gender-fluid disguises, Partenope becomes a dazzling operatic rom-com full of humour, seduction, and emotional intrigue.
The production design draws from the surrealist movement, nodding to artists and writers like André Breton, Max Ernst, Salvador Dalí, and Man Ray—creating a dreamlike Parisian art salon as its setting. The cast is led by acclaimed soprano Nardus Williams, alongside conductor Christian Curnyn, whose previous work on Semele was named one of The Sunday Times’ Best Recordings of 2008 and earned the Stanley Sadie Handel Prize the same year. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a first-timer, get tickets for the Partenope opera in London and enjoy a captivating night out!
Storyline
Set in a flamboyant 1920s Paris salon, Partenope follows the titular socialite and her growing crowd of would-be lovers. At the heart of the chaos are three suitors: the gallant Arsace, the shy poet Armindo, and the confident Emilio. But things take a twist when a mysterious figure named Eurimene enters the scene—only to be revealed as Rosmira, Arsace’s ex, in disguise. As the games of love, deception, and mistaken identity unfold, Partenope delivers both heart and hilarity in equal measure. Packed with baroque melodies and surprising turns, this witty rom-com asks: can true love be found amid masks and mayhem? Book your tickets to the Partenope opera in London to find out how this tangle of hearts is finally untied.
Show timings
Show timings for Partenope may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading Roles: Nardus Williams as Partenope, Hugh Cutting as Arsace, Ru Charlesworth as Emilio, Jake Ingbar as Armindo, Katie Bray as Rosmira, William Thomas as Ormonte
Conductor: Christian Curnyn
Director: Christopher Alden
Set Designer: Andrew Lieberman
Costume Designer: Jon Morrell
Lighting Designer: Adam Silverman
Movement Director: Claire Glaskin
Revival Movement and Intimacy Director: Elaine Brown
Translator: Amanda Holden
Age Suitability
This show is suitable for ages 15 years and above.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
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 Partenope 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 start from £14.06, and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The opera does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 15 years and above.
The opera is playing at the London Coliseum in London.
It’s Handel's witty romantic opera about a 1920s socialite entangled in love, disguise, and mistaken identity. Think gender-bending twists and baroque flair.
The running time is 3 hours 30 minutes with one intermission(s).
The main stars of the show are Nardus Williams as Partenope, Hugh Cutting as Arsace, Ru Charlesworth as Emilio, Jake Ingbar as Armindo, Katie Bray as Rosmira, William Thomas as Ormonte.
Yes, all ENO productions, including this one, are performed in English with surtitles displayed above the stage.
