English
English
3 hr 30 min with 1 interval
Partenope
Opening on Nov 20, 2025
DURATION
CLOSING DATE
Until December 6, 2025
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for 15+ yrs
AboutVenueTickets
Why watch Partenope?
- A riot of romance, identity twists, and gender-bending disguises, Partenope transforms Handel’s baroque comedy into a surreal 1920s romp full of sharp humour and theatrical flair.
- Christopher Alden’s Olivier Award-winning production, first staged in 2008, has travelled from London to major opera houses in Madrid, San Francisco, and New York, earning acclaim worldwide.
- A cast of fast-rising talents, led by soprano Nardus Williams, recipient of the Rising Talent award at the 2022 International Opera Awards—brings nuance and energy to this witty tale of romance, revenge, and revelation.
- With glittering flapper-era costumes, a surrealist art salon setting, and Handel’s lush score at the core, this revival fuses visual charm with musical brilliance.
- Running for a strictly limited engagement at the London Coliseum, this is your chance to catch one of ENO’s most inventive revivals—book your tickets to the Partenope opera in London now!
Partenope is one of Handel’s boldest and most playful operas, and ENO’s revival reimagines it in the chic, surrealist world of 1920s Paris. Directed by Olivier Award-winner Christopher Alden, this English-language production takes Handel’s first comic opera and infuses it with elegance, irony, and a stylised sense of fun. With non-stop parties, flowing cocktails, and stylish gender-fluid disguises, Partenope becomes a dazzling operatic rom-com full of humour, seduction, and emotional intrigue.
The production design draws from the surrealist movement, nodding to artists and writers like André Breton, Max Ernst, Salvador Dalí, and Man Ray—creating a dreamlike Parisian art salon as its setting. The cast is led by acclaimed soprano Nardus Williams, alongside conductor Christian Curnyn, whose previous work on Semele was named one of The Sunday Times’ Best Recordings of 2008 and earned the Stanley Sadie Handel Prize the same year. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a first-timer, get tickets for the Partenope opera in London and enjoy a captivating night out!
Storyline
Set in a flamboyant 1920s Paris salon, Partenope follows the titular socialite and her growing crowd of would-be lovers. At the heart of the chaos are three suitors: the gallant Arsace, the shy poet Armindo, and the confident Emilio. But things take a twist when a mysterious figure named Eurimene enters the scene—only to be revealed as Rosmira, Arsace’s ex, in disguise. As the games of love, deception, and mistaken identity unfold, Partenope delivers both heart and hilarity in equal measure. Packed with baroque melodies and surprising turns, this witty rom-com asks: can true love be found amid masks and mayhem? Book your tickets to the Partenope opera in London to find out how this tangle of hearts is finally untied.
Show timings
Show timings for Partenope may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & crew
- Leading roles: Nardus Williams as Partenope, Hugh Cutting as Arsace, Ru Charlesworth as Emilio, Jake Ingbar as Armindo, Katie Bray as Rosmira, William Thomas as Ormonte
- Conductor: Christian Curnyn
- Director: Christopher Alden
- Set Designer: Andrew Lieberman
- Costume Designer: Jon Morrell
- Lighting Designer: Adam Silverman
- Movement Director: Claire Glaskin
- Revival Movement and Intimacy Director: Elaine Brown
- Translator: Amanda Holden
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
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 among the West End’s most prestigious theatres and serves as the home of English National Opera. Opened in 1904, it features a striking Edwardian Baroque façade and one of the widest proscenium arches in the city. It’s renowned for its superb acoustics and unobstructed sightlines. Over the decades, it has staged acclaimed productions including Carmen, The Magic Flute, La bohème, The Mikado, and Akhnaten, cementing its status as a cultural landmark and a must-visit venue for opera enthusiasts.
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 Partenope
How much do the Partenope tickets cost?
The cost of the tickets will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
What age is Partenope appropriate for?
The opera does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 15 years and above.
Where is Partenope playing in London?
The opera is playing at the London Coliseum in London.
What is Partenope about?
It’s Handel's witty romantic opera about a 1920s socialite entangled in love, disguise, and mistaken identity. Think gender-bending twists and baroque flair.
How long does Partenope run for?
The running time is 3 hours 30 minutes with one intermission(s).
Who are the main stars of Partenope?
The main stars of the show are Nardus Williams as Partenope, Hugh Cutting as Arsace, Ru Charlesworth as Emilio, Jake Ingbar as Armindo, Katie Bray as Rosmira, William Thomas as Ormonte.
Are the performances in English?
Yes, all ENO productions, including this one, are performed in English with surtitles displayed above the stage.