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.  

This year's program is filled with new takes on classics as well as fresh new productions set to entertain opera-goers: 

• Cinderella (La Cenerentola): 27 Sep - 14 Oct 

Watch the new production of Rossini's opera, set in contemporary London and offering a modern interpretation of the beloved fairy tale. Cinderella dreams of finding her one true love, hoping for a genuine connection that transcends appearance and social expectations. Her world is turned upside down after she meets Prince Don Ramiro.

• Carmen: 8 Oct - 5 Nov

Bizet's irresistible Carmen is back at the Coliseum, with a striking new production of one of the most popular operas. Watch Don José, played by John Findon, become obsessed with the free-spirited Carmen, played by mezzo-soprano Niamh O’Sullivan, as she toys with the fine line between passion and danger.

Musicals at the London Coliseum  

Last year, the Coliseum welcomed the debut stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s beloved Spirited Away – a production that went on to earn four nominations at the 2025 Olivier Awards, including Best Set Design, Best Costume Design, Best Sound Design and Best New Entertainment. Hayao Miyazaki’s enchanting tale came to life on stage, complete with mesmerising puppetry and a live orchestra performing Joe Hisaishi’s unmistakable score.

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. 

2025 at the London Coliseum: The Great Gatsby takes to the stage

The Great Gatsby (11 April to 7 September 2025):

This year, the Broadway smash hit and Tony Award-winning The Great Gatsby roars its way into one of London’s most celebrated venues, the Coliseum. Step into London’s greatest party as this musical adaptation of F Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel brings the roaring 20s and their dazzling soirées to the West End stage. Meet the elusive Jay Gatsby, a millionaire known for hosting extravagant parties at his Long Island mansion, yet rarely seen himself. Beneath the glitz and glamour lies a story of heartbreak, as Gatsby pursues long-lost love Daisy Buchanan in a chase that spans across time. So, put on your most dazzling outfit and don’t miss a performance filled with unforgettable music, romance, and intrigue – a show set to light up the London stage. 

Want to know more about the show? Read the Visit London review of The Great Gatsby

Making a comeback in 2026: Kinky Boots the Musical

Kinky Boots is strutting back into the London West End, landing at the London Coliseum after a record-breaking UK tour in 2025. Johannes Radebe is set to reprise the role of Lola, making his much awaited debut in the London West End. The new adaptation of the Olivier and Tony Award-winning musical – based on the book by Harvey Fierstein with a musical score by Cyndi Lauper – is landing at the Coliseum for a limited 17 weeks run (17 Mar – 11 Jul 2026. The show will be directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster (My Fair Lady, A Chorus Line, Billy Elliot).

Get ready to dive back into the legendary story that stunned both side of the Atlantic. The story follows the unlikely friendship between Lola, a larger-than-life drag queen, and Charlie Price, the struggling heir to a traditional Northampton shoe factory. Together, they set out on a glitter-filled journey to save the business – one fabulous pair of heels at a time.

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 (11 December 2025 to 11 January 2026) – Enjoy a dazzling 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. 
• Akram Khan's Giselle (15 to 18 January 2026) – Experience a bold reimagining of one of the greatest romantic ballets, as young Giselle, part of a community of migrant workers, falls for Albrecht, a factory landlord hiding both his true identity and secret engagement. This powerful tale of heartbreak and deception is brought to life with mesmerising ballet choreography, blending Kathak, a classical Indian dance, to deliver a contemporary take on this timeless classic.

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.

• Afternoon Tea – If you’re heading to a matinee, why not treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the London Coliseum before the performance? Savour a delightful selection of traditional sandwiches, freshly baked scones and tempting sweet treats.
• The Great Gatsby Ultimate VIP Experience – Add a touch of luxury to your visit to the London Coliseum with a welcome drink, perfectly paired with a selection of canapés, light bites, antipasti, fine cheeses, and charcuterie.
• 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 further 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.