London Coliseum events and tickets

The London Coliseum, home to the English National Opera, is the largest theatre in London’s West End, boasting 2,359 seats. Throughout the year, it hosts a diverse array of world-class performances.  

Audiences can enjoy classic ballet favourites like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, alongside up-and-coming productions and acclaimed English National Opera performances. With something for everyone, the London Coliseum is a must-visit for all music and dance enthusiasts.  

The London Coliseum history 

Although it’s now home to the English National Opera, the London Coliseum hasn’t always staged opera. The theatre opened in 1904 and operated as a variety theatre welcoming entertainment of all forms, from concerts to musicals and comedies, acrobatics and even chariot races. In 1968, it became the home of the English National Opera, confirming its status as a top London cultural institution. The London Coliseum features the city's first revolving stage, a groundbreaking innovation that brought performances to life. This cutting-edge feature was later adopted by the London Palladium. Today, the Coliseum remains the largest theatre in London’s West End, enchanting audiences with its rich history and diverse programming. 

Opera at the London Coliseum  

The London Coliseum has staged numerous performances, presenting innovative productions of both classic and contemporary operas. Its grand auditorium, renowned for superb acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing exceptional talents. The Coliseum has hosted many operas including Carmen, La Bohème and La Traviata.  

English National Opera 2024/25 season at the London Coliseum 

Get ready for an exhilarating 2024/25 season at the London Coliseum, as the English National Opera unveils a spectacular lineup, promising an unforgettable programme filled with captivating performances and timeless masterpieces. 

• The Elixir of Love (15 Nov-5 Dec 2024) – Step into a new staging of Donizetti's opera, a romantic comedy set against the backdrop of World War II. In an English country home, the arrival of a love potion salesman disrupts the tranquil household. Follow the charming Nemorino as he tries to win the heart of the beautiful Adina with a mysterious elixir. 
• The Pirates of Penzance (2 Dec 2024-21 Feb 2025) – The English National Opera’s smash hit is back to London for everyone’s delight. Embark on a exciting adventure with Gilbert and Sullivan's classic opera, where pirates rule the seas and maidens long for their attention. Join the dashing Frederic as he navigates a series of comic misunderstandings and romantic struggles on the Cornish coast. 
• The Marriage of Figaro (5-22 Feb 2025) – Witness one of Mozart's most famous operas – betrayal and mischief reign in this timeless comedy. Follow the scheming Count Almaviva as he plots to seduce Figaro's bride-to-be. What unfolds is a whirlwind of deception and intrigue as the household takes sides.
• Mary, Queen of Scots (15-18 Feb 2025) – The modern opera makes its ENO London premiere with the English National Opera, revisiting historical events that echo through the ages. Join Mary I, Queen of Scots, as she navigates treacherous politics and relationships in her quest to secure a future for Scotland. 

Ballet at the London Coliseum 

This season at the London Coliseum is set to dazzle, as timeless classics make a comeback in a thrilling lineup of ballet performances. Get ready to be swept away by unforgettable stories and world class dancing. 

• Nutcracker (12 Dec 2024-12 Jan 2025) – Enjoy a dazzling new production of the Christmas classic at the London Coliseum. Join Clara and her mother as they take a last-minute shopping trip, bringing home sweets for their party guests. Witness Clara's enchanting journey as she defends her home against the Rat King and meets the magical Sugar Plum Fairy. With over 100 dancers gracing the stage, prepare to be spellbound by this classic holiday tale filled with wonder. 
• Giselle (15-18 Jan 2025) – Experience one of the greatest romantic ballets, in which the young Giselle falls in love with a duke who conceals his identity and engagement. The poignant tale of heartbreak and deception is brought to life with the enchanting music of the English National Ballet Philharmonic. 

Musicals at the London Coliseum  

This year, the Coliseum presents the debut stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli's beloved Spirited Away. Hayao Miyazaki's enchanting story comes alive on stage with mesmerising puppetry and a live orchestra performing Joe Hisaishi's iconic music. 

Plenty of award-winning shows including musicals have taken the stage at the London Coliseum. 2023 saw the much-awaited return of worldwide sensation We Will Rock You, a musical by Queen and Ben Elton, taking the same stage Freddie Mercury performed at in 1979. 

Food and drink 

The bar at the London Coliseum opens 90 minutes before the performance starts. 

If you want to make your experience extra special, why not upgrade to a dining package with many options available. Make sure to book those in advance.  

• American Bar small plates dining package – Enjoy a selection of small plates, inspired by tapas tradition and Italian “cichetti”, followed by dessert served during the interval.  
• English National Ballet experience (matinees) – Choose from an afternoon tea style buffet with a selection of finger sandwiches, mini cakes and macarons. Your table is booked through the afternoon, so that you can come back after the performance.
• English National Ballet experience (evenings) – Elevate your experience at the London Coliseum with a luxurious dining option in the American Bar. Enjoy unlimited access to a buffet of hot and cold dishes through the evening, before the show and during the interval. Dishes include a variety of British and French cheese, a charcuterie board, salads and sliders, with a selection of mini cakes at the interval.

Where is the London Coliseum?  

The London Coliseum is located in the heart of London’s West End on St Martin’s Lane.  

How to get there: 

• Tube – Charing Cross is the closest tube station (on the Bakerloo and Northern lines).
• Bus – Several bus routes stop by St Martin's Place (24, N5, N20, N29, N41 and N279), located a two-minute walk away from the theatre. 
• Cycling – Rent a Santander Cycles bike and head to William IV Street on the Strand, where you can find the nearest docking station. 

What is the dress code for the London Coliseum?

There is no formal dress code required to attend a show at the London Coliseum, and most guests opt for smart casual attire. However, attending the theatre often feels like a special occasion, so many people choose to dress up, especially for events like opera or ballet performances.

Where is it best to sit in the London Coliseum?

The best seats at the London Coliseum depend on your preferences and budget. Here’s a guide to the seating areas:

• Central Stalls – Often considered the best seats (particularly rows D-G), these offer a clear view of the stage without being too close, allowing you to enjoy the performance comfortably.
• Dress Circle – Known for providing one of the best views and acoustics, Dress Circle seats offer an unobstructed, panoramic view of the stage.
• Upper Circle and Balcony – These sections are more budget-friendly, though they’re higher up and farther from the stage. Central seats in these areas still offer good views of the performance.
• Boxes – Located at the sides of the Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle levels, the boxes offer a private experience and a unique perspective on the stage. Although it is worth to note that some of those seats have slightly obstructed views.

The London Coliseum is renowned for its excellent acoustics, so no matter where you sit, you’re in for a memorable experience.