English
English
2 hr 45 min with interval
DURATION
CLOSING DATE
Until November 5, 2025
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for 15+ yrs
AboutVenueTickets
Why watch Carmen?
- The ENO revival of Carmen sets Bizet’s timeless story in 1970s Franco‑Spain, blending raw political edge with classic passion to appeal to fans of historical drama and opera alike.
- Mezzo‑soprano Niamh O’Sullivan leads as Carmen with rising star John Findon as Don José and debuting Cory McGee as Escamillo, offering fresh talent and strong vocal performances.
- Famous for the “Habanera” and “Toreador Song,” Bizet’s score pulses with rhythm and drama, an ideal choice for those drawn to powerful, melodic music.
- Calixto Bieito’s acclaimed staging (revived by Jamie Manton) has toured top opera houses and earned praise for its gritty intensity and memorable visuals.
- With a limited run for one month only at the London Coliseum, this high‑demand production is compelling, seductive and hypnotising. Book your Carmen opera London tickets today!
English National Opera’s Carmen is a 1970s‑Spain revival of Bizet’s classic, running at London Coliseum from 8 October to 5 November 2025. Directed by Jamie Manton after Calixto Bieito’s powerful original, it stars Niamh O’Sullivan, John Findon, and Cory McGee, backed by conductors Clelia Cafiero and Olivia Clarke. The production earned critical acclaim, The Stage says it “shimmers with every one of the company’s strengths,” while The Guardian praises its tense atmosphere. Performed in English with surtitles, this opera offers gritty fight choreography, stylish design by Alfons Flores and Mercè Paloma, and dramatic lighting by Bruno Poet .
Storyline
Set amid the final days of Franco’s Spain, Carmen opera London follows the flirtatious factory-worker Carmen who draws soldier Don José into a spiral of passion and crime. Carmen shifts her freedom-loving heart to bullfighter Escamillo, igniting a fierce love triangle that ends in jealous obsession. Freedom, desire, and fate play under scrutiny in this intense opera as passions burn and consequences unfold. Book your Carmen opera tickets to see betrayal and love onstage.
Show timings
Show timings for Carmen may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & crew
- Leading roles: Mezzo‑soprano Niamh O’Sullivan as Carmen, tenor John Findon as Don José, baritone Cory McGee as Escamillo, soprano Ava Dodd as Micaela, bass-baritone Patrick Keefe as Dancairo, tenor Osian Wyn Bowen as Remendado, mezzo Siân Griffiths as Mercedes, soprano Harriet Eyley as Frasquita, bass‑baritone Keel Watson as Zuniga
- Director: Original staging by Calixto Bieito
- Revival director: Jamie Manton
- Production: Co-production with Den Norske Opera and Ballet
- Conductors: Clelia Cafiero and Olivia Clarke
- Intimacy & fight direction: Haruka Kuroda
- Composer: Georges Bizet
- Libretto translators & lyric adaptation: Libretto by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy; English translation by Christopher Cowell
- Set designer: Alfons Flores
- Costume designer: Mercè Paloma
- Lighting designer: Bruno Poet
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
Top songs
Before you see Carmen live, dive into its fiery score. Bizet’s music brims with passion, danger, and unforgettable drama. Expect iconic arias like the sultry Habanera, the bold Toreador Song, the tender Flower Song (La fleur que tu m'avais jetée), and the playful Seguidilla—each as thrilling as the story itself.
Age & content guide
- 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!
London Coliseum Read more
The London Coliseum is one of the West End’s grandest opera venues and the proud home of English National Opera. Opened in 1904, this Edwardian Baroque masterpiece boasts a vast stage and seating for around 2,300, offering excellent acoustics and clear views from every seat. Past triumphs include Carmen, Rigoletto, Madama Butterfly, and The Valkyrie, making it a cornerstone of London’s operatic legacy
The London Coliseum seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
- Train: Charing Cross Train Station is the nearest station.
- Tube: Charing Cross Underground Station and Leicester Square Underground Station are nearby stations served by the Northern, Piccadilly and Bakerloo Lines.
- Bus: You can take buses stopping on Charing Cross Road (24, 29 and 176) and Charing Cross Station or Trafalgar Square (6, 9, 11, 15, 23, 87 and 91).
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: elevator, restrooms, bar
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, guide dogs allowed, hearing assistance, access performances, accessible restrooms, audio description
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’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
- Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!
Cancellation & refunds
- Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions about Carmen
What is Carmen about?
amillo.
Why is Carmen opera so famous?
Carmen is one of the most performed and beloved operas worldwide due to its gripping drama, unforgettable melodies, and its bold, complex heroine. Its music has become iconic, especially the "Habanera" and "Toreador Song".
What is the story of the opera Carmen?
The opera follows Don José, who abandons his military duties for Carmen, a fiercely independent woman. Their love turns destructive when Carmen grows tired of him and falls for Escamillo, leading to a tragic end.
What is the message of Carmen’s opera?
ession.
What is the famous piece from Carmen’s opera?
The most famous pieces are “Habanera” (L’amour est un oiseau rebelle) and “Toreador Song” (Votre toast, je peux vous le rendre), both instantly recognisable and widely performed in classical and popular contexts. Notable other arias and pieces include: “Seguidilla,” “Flower Song,” and the “Card Trio.” The ENO performance may feature some adapted or reordered numbers in English.
Is the Carmen opera performed in English?
Yes, the English National Opera (ENO) performs Carmen in English, with surtitles provided to support clarity for all audiences.
Who is in the cast of Carmen at the English National Opera?
The 2025 cast includes Niamh O’Sullivan as Carmen with John Findon, Cory McGee, and Sarah-Jane Brandon, conducted by Clelia Cafiero and Olivia Clarke on alternate nights.
How long is the performance?
The performance runs for approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including one interval.
Are there BSL-interpreted performances?
Yes, there will be a BSL-interpreted performance on 3 November 2025 (evening).
What ages is the show suitable for?
The show is recommended for audiences aged 15 and above due to its mature content.
What language is the opera performed in?
The production is sung in English, in line with ENO’s tradition.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the London Coliseum offers full wheelchair access, lifts, accessible toilets, and companion seating.
Can I take photos during the show?
No, photography and recording are strictly prohibited during the performance.
Are latecomers admitted?
Yes, but they may be seated at a suitable break in the performance to avoid disruption.