English National Opera

What to expect with your English National Opera Tickets

1/4

🎭 Opera like you’ve never seen before

ENO brings a fresh twist to legendary operas, presenting them in English for a more immersive experience. Expect powerful storytelling, jaw-dropping sets, and emotionally charged performances that will leave you spellbound.

The grand history of the English National Opera London

Born in 1931 through the visionary spirit of Lilian Baylis, the company began as a humble yet passionate endeavor at Sadler's Wells Theatre. Baylis was more than just an impresario; she was a cultural revolutionary who believed that opera should not be a luxury reserved for the elite but a living, breathing art form accessible to all.

During the dark days of World War II, when the Sadler's Wells Theatre was closed, the opera company continued to perform, touring nationally and keeping the flame of creativity alive. In 1968, they found their permanent home at the London Coliseum, a breathtaking theatre designed by Frank Matcham, whose ornate architectural details whisper stories of bygone eras. It was here that Sadler's Wells Opera transformed into the English National Opera, a name that would become synonymous with groundbreaking performances and artistic innovation.

Opera’s greatest hits - The best performances from the English National Opera

ENO has brought some of the most legendary operas to life in thrilling productions. Orpheus in the Underworld blended dark humor and mythology, featuring songs like He Is the Only God and We Can Tell She's in Hell. Peter Grimes, the opera that cemented ENO’s reputation in 1945, remains one of its greatest triumphs. The darkly atmospheric The Mines of Sulphur first stunned audiences in 1965, while The Mask of Orpheus pushed opera’s boundaries with its radical storytelling in 1986.

La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi

First Performed: 1853, Venice, Italy

A heart-wrenching tale of love and sacrifice, La Traviata tells the story of Violetta, a courtesan who falls in love with Alfredo but must ultimately sacrifice her happiness for his family's reputation. Verdi's masterpiece revolutionized opera by bringing stark realism to the stage, depicting the social constraints of 19th-century Italian society.

Carmen by Georges Bizet

First Performed: 1875, Paris, France

A revolutionary opera that shocked audiences with its bold portrayal of a fiercely independent woman, Carmen is a passionate story of love, desire, and fatal attraction. Ironically, the opera was initially considered a failure and Bizet died believing his work was a disappointment, only to become one of the most performed operas worldwide after his death.

La bohème by Giacomo Puccini

First Performed: 1896, Turin, Italy

A poignant exploration of young love and artistic struggle in Paris, La bohème follows a group of struggling artists, focusing on the love story between Rodolfo and Mimì. Puccini's genius lies in his ability to capture the beauty and tragedy of youth, making the opera a timeless tale of love, friendship, and loss.

The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

First Performed: 1791, Vienna, Austria

A fantastical journey blending fairy tale, philosophy, and music, The Magic Flute is Mozart's final opera and one of his most beloved works. The opera combines elements of comedy, drama, and mysticism, featuring the incredibly challenging 'Queen of the Night' aria - considered one of the most difficult vocal performances in opera. It's a perfect introduction to opera, blending accessible storytelling with extraordinary musical complexity.

Tosca by Giacomo Puccini

First Performed: 1900, Rome, Italy

Set against the backdrop of political turmoil in Rome, Tosca is a dramatic thriller that combines love, art, and political intrigue. Puccini's opera was groundbreaking for its time, depicting real violence on stage and exploring complex emotional landscapes. The aria 'Vissi d'arte' is a powerful meditation on the role of art and faith in the face of oppression, showcasing Puccini's ability to create deeply emotional musical moments.

Home of the English National Opera

The London Coliseum

The grand home of ENO, this stunning Edwardian theatre is one of London’s largest and most beautiful venues. With its lavish décor and exceptional acoustics, it’s the perfect setting for an unforgettable opera experience. Iconic past productions here include The Magic Flute, Carmen, and Rigoletto. See the one of the biggest performance spaces in London with English National Opera tickets.

Other Venues & Special Performances

Beyond the Coliseum, ENO has performed in unique locations across London. Catch a show at the Southbank Centre known for hosting special contemporary and avant-garde performances. For grand opera, Alexandra Palace offers a breathtaking backdrop for large-scale productions like The Valkyrie. The English National Opera is also known for its open air, accessible performances, held at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Everything you need to know before getting tickets to the English National Opera

Selecting seats

Common Opera terms

More tips

The London Coliseum offers a range of seating options to suit different preferences and budgets. The Stalls, with 520 seats, provide the most comfortable experience, especially for those seeking extra legroom. Aisle seats in this section are particularly recommended, and the area offers excellent accessibility with level access in Row O and four dedicated wheelchair spaces.
The Dress Circle presents a mid-level view of the stage, accommodating 635 seats and accessible via 30 steps from the foyer. Two wheelchair-accessible seats at the end of row K make this section a good option for those with some mobility. Moving up, the Upper Circle offers 610 seats but comes with limitations, as it is 63 steps up and lacks lift access, making it challenging for those with mobility issues.
The Balcony, the highest seating section, provides the most budget-friendly option with 498 seats. Located 93 steps from the main foyer, it does have lift access to row K, offering a panoramic view of the performance at the most economical price point.

Female voices range from the highest soprano, typically portraying lead romantic roles, to the mezzo-soprano with its slightly lower register, often taking on supporting character parts. The contralto or alto represents the lowest female voice, though less commonly featured in leading roles.
Male voices are equally diverse, starting with the countertenor - the highest male voice, historically performing roles originally written for castrati. Tenors are the most common high male voice, frequently cast as romantic leads, while baritones represent the most prevalent male voice type with remarkable versatility. Bass singers, with their deep, resonant tones, typically embody older, authoritative characters.
Genres: Opera Seria represents the traditional, serious dramatic form, focusing on historical or heroic themes, with composers like Handel and Mozart leading the way. In contrast, Opera Buffa offers comic relief, highlighting everyday life with wit and humor. Opera Verismo brings realism to the stage, with composers like Puccini depicting gritty, true-to-life narratives. For those new to opera, Operetta provides a gentler introduction, blending spoken dialogue with musical numbers, championed by composers like Offenbach and Gilbert and Sullivan.

Plan to arrive 75 minutes before the performance, with bars opening 90 minutes prior to show time.
The venue is wonderfully accessible, with wheelchair-friendly spaces, assistive listening systems, and lifts to most levels.
Five bars across different theatre levels ensure refreshment is always within reach, and the on-site American Bar Restaurant provides additional dining options.
For those seeking pre or post-show dining, the surrounding area offers diverse culinary experiences. From the tapas at Barrafina to the British cuisine at Browns Covent Garden, and from Wagamama's Asian offerings to Nando's flame-grilled chicken, there's something to suit every palate. The nearby Blame Gloria offers a perfect post-opera cocktail venue for those looking to extend their evening.
The venue is easily accessible, with multiple tube stations nearby, including Charing Cross, Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and Embankment.

Opera shows

A dramatic art form that combines theatrical storytelling with orchestral music and operatic singing, where the narrative unfolds primarily through song rather than spoken dialogue.

Know more

Ballet shows

A refined dance performance that tells stories through precise, graceful movements and classical music, often characterized by pointe work, tutu costumes, and elaborate choreography.

Know more

Classic shows

A timeless artistic work of enduring quality and significance that has withstood the test of time and continues to be relevant and admired across generations.

Know more

Drama shows

A form of narrative fiction represented through performance, typically exploring serious themes, emotional depth, and character development through dialogue and action.

Know more

Frequently Asked Questions About English National Opera Tickets

What is English National Opera?

The English National Opera (ENO) brings opera to the masses. If you are someone who wishes to experience the rich English heritage, book English National Opera tickets.

Where can I get tickets for English National Opera shows?

You can find tickets for English National Opera London shows online.

How long does a London opera last?

Opera performances at ENO typically last between 2-3.5 hours, including intervals.

Where does the English National Opera perform?

The English National Opera typically performs at the London Coliseum on St. Martin's Lane in London's West End.

Is there a dress code for attending ENO events?

There is no formal dress code at ENO, with most attendees wearing smart-casual attire. However, sleek evening wear is usually best for the occasion.

Can I take photographs or videos during the show?

Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during performances.

What are surtitles?

Surtitles are translated text displayed above the stage that help audiences follow the libretto, though less necessary at ENO as performances are in English.

What happens if an ENO event is canceled?

If an ENO event is canceled, ticket holders are typically offered refunds or exchanges for another performance.

Will latecomers be admitted to the English National Opera?

Latecomers are usually admitted only at suitable breaks in the performance or during intervals.

Which items are prohibited inside the venue?

Prohibited items typically include large bags, food and drink from outside, and recording equipment.

Can I get English National Opera tickets for cheap?

Yes, you can browse discounted tickets online or choose off-peak hours to grab discounts. You may also choose standing tickets or balcony tickets for a budget-friendly experience.

What is the best time to get tickets to the English National Opera?

The main ENO season typically runs from September through April/May. It is advisable to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance to avoid missing out on your preferred date & time.

Why are ENO shows so popular?

ENO shows are popular for their innovative productions, English-language performances, and commitment to making opera accessible.

What is the difference between the Royal Opera House and the English National Opera?

The English National Opera London performs in English and focuses on accessibility, while the Royal Opera House typically performs in the original language with more traditional productions.

Are all ENO operas in English?

Yes, most ENO productions are performed in English, which is central to their mission of making opera accessible to English-speaking audiences.

NaN million +

Happy customers across 10,000+ experiences

4.4/5

5,000+ verified reviews with 90% excellent score

100% Safe

All the outdoor activities are 100% safe and secure

24x7 Help center

Have a question? Live chat with local experts anywhere, anytime