Opening on Dec 04, 2025
Aboard a British naval ship docked in Portsmouth, love and hierarchy clash in HMS Pinafore, Gilbert & Sullivan’s first international hit. This revival from English National Opera, helmed by comic maestro Cal McCrystal, is a riotous romp through class and courtship. Following its acclaimed 2021 premiere, the production earned an Olivier nomination for Outstanding Achievement in Opera for its dazzling set and costume design.
Award-winning bass-baritone Neal Davis stars as Sir Joseph Porter alongside John Savournin’s dry-witted Captain Corcoran. Harewood Artist Henna Mun and tenor Thomas Atkins round out the central love triangle with charisma and vocal finesse. Conductor Matthew Kofi Waldren, known for ENO’s Blue, leads the musical charge. From tongue-twisting lyrics to striking visuals, this production delivers a slick, satirical voyage that honours tradition while steering into fresh waters.
Set aboard the Royal Navy ship HMS Pinafore, the opera follows Captain Corcoran and his daughter Josephine, whose heart belongs not to her high-ranking suitor but to humble sailor Ralph Rackstraw. Torn between duty and desire, Josephine must choose between love and the life she was raised for. As social hierarchies clash and secrets surface, the ship’s crew finds themselves navigating more than just the sea. A hilarious commentary on class, politics, and romance, this witty tale unfolds with twists worth anchoring down for—book your tickets to the HMS Pinafore opera in London.
Show timings for HMS Pinafore may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
The London Coliseum is one of the West End’s grandest and most historic venues, home to the English National Opera. Opened in 1904, this Edwardian Baroque masterpiece boasts one of the largest proscenium arches in London and seats around 2,300 guests. Renowned for its excellent acoustics and sightlines, the Coliseum has hosted acclaimed productions including Carmen, The Magic Flute, and The Yeomen of the Guard.
The London Coliseum seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theatre.
Available facilities: elevator, restrooms, bar, restaurant
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, guide dogs allowed, hearing assistance, access performances, accessible restrooms, audio description
The cost of the tickets starts from £ 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 5 years and above.
The show is playing at the London Coliseum in London.
It’s a comic opera that follows a love triangle aboard a naval ship, where class and rank complicate romance in the most humorous way.
The running time is 2 hours 15 minutes with 1 intermission(s).
The main stars of the show are Neal Davis as Rt. Hon Sir Joseph Porter, John Savournin as Captain Corcoran, Henna Mun as Josephine, Thomas Atkins as Ralph Rackstraw.
This is a revival of Cal McCrystal’s 2021 ENO production, which was nominated for an Olivier Award.
Yes, English National Opera performances are sung in English, and surtitles are displayed for clarity.
Absolutely. While the humour is rooted in British satire, the themes of love and class are universal.