English
English
2 hr 50 min with interval
DURATION
CLOSING DATE
Until November 18, 2025
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for 18+ yrs
AboutVenueTickets
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
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
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 & content guide
- 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.
London Coliseum Read more
The London Coliseum is the largest theatre in London, located in the heart of St Martin’s Lane. Opened in 1904 and designed by famed theatre architect Frank Matcham, the Coliseum was built to be ‘the people's palace of entertainment’. Today, it is home to the English National Opera and known for staging grand-scale productions, from classic operas like La bohème and Carmen to contemporary works like Philip Glass's Orphée. The first theater in England to have installed the revolving stage, it also features lavish interiors and an iconic tower.
The London Coliseum seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
Address: St Martin's Ln, London WC2N 4ES, United Kingdom
Tube: The nearest station is Charing Cross
Bus: Bus routes servicing the area include 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 53, 77a, 88, 91, 139, 159, 176.
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: restrooms, bar, cloakroom, lounge, gift shop, air conditioning, bag check
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, wheelchair spaces available, assistive listening devices, guide dogs allowed, hearing assistance, access performances, ramp, accessible restrooms, audio description, accessible elevator, sign language interpreters, step-free access, access hosts
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 Dead Man Walking
How much do the Dead Man Walking tickets cost?
The cost of the tickets starts from £13 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
What age is Dead Man Walking appropriate for?
The show does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for individuals aged 18 and above.
Where is Dead Man Walking playing in London?
The show is playing at the London Coliseum in London.
What is Dead Man Walking about?
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.
How long does Dead Man Walking run for?
The running time is 2 hours and 50 minutes with 1 intermission.
Who are the main stars of Dead Man Walking?
The main stars of the show are Christine Rice as Sister Helen Prejean and Michael Mayes as Joseph De Rocher.
Who wrote the opera?
The libretto for this opera was written by playwright Terrence McNally.
Is Dead Man Walking a true story?
Yes, the show is based on Sister Helen Prejean's real-life memoir about her experiences as a spiritual advisor to death row inmates.
Is the opera performed in English?
Yes, the opera is performed in English with surtitles.
Who composed the Dead Man Walking score?
The music for the show is composed by Jake Heggie. Catch a glimpse of the operatic score here.