HMS Pinafore

Opening on Dec 04, 2025

Opera Romance Comedy Critics' Choice English National Opera

London Coliseum

DURATION

2 hr 15 min with 1 interval

CLOSING DATE

Until February 7, 2026

AGE LIMIT

Suitable for 5+ yrs

from

£14.06

AboutVenueTicketsReviews

Why watch HMS Pinafore?

Gilbert & Sullivan’s sharp-witted comic opera returns with a buoyant tale of love, class, and mistaken identity set aboard a Royal Navy ship, perfect for fans of satire and classic British humour.
Olivier-nominated director Cal McCrystal brings his “endlessly mischievous” vision back to the stage, with standout performances by British bass-baritone Neal Davis and ENO favourite John Savournin.
This acclaimed revival, first staged in 2021, is back at the London Coliseum for a limited run—don’t miss this G&S classic reimagined with visual flair and whip-smart energy.
Expect bold costumes, shipshape sets, and a pacey score packed with earworms you’ll recognise from shows like The Simpsons and The West Wing.
Critics call it “a touch of genius” and “enormous fun”, a crowd-pleaser that’s as cheeky as it is charming. Book your tickets to the HMS Pinafore opera in London now.

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.

Storyline

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

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.

Cast & crew

Leading roles: Neal Davis as Rt. Hon Sir Joseph Porter, John Savournin as Captain Corcoran, Henna Mun as Josephine, Thomas Atkins as Ralph Rackstraw
Director: Cal McCrystal
Conductor: Matthew Kofi Waldren

Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.

Age & content guide

This show is suited for ages 5 years and above.
Please keep in mind that theatre does not have an age classification organization. This means that all age recommendations are subjective. Please use your judgment while purchasing tickets for any show.

London Coliseum Read more

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. 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.

Getting there

Address: St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4ES
Tube: The nearest tube stations are Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) and Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines).
Bus: Buses 6, 9, 11, 15, 23, 24, 87, 91, 139, 176 all stop near the theatre.

Facilities & accessibility

Available facilities: elevator, restrooms, bar, restaurant

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.

Ratings & reviews

4.5

12 ratings

Adam

Dec 2021Verified booking

5/5

This was my first experience of ENO, but it will not be last! What an evening it was. The atmosphere was amazing. Also, on a Covid-19 note the seating was socially distanced too. Which made it even better.