Carmen - English National Opera
One for everyone’s bucket list, join us for Bizet’s irresistible Carmen — a timeless tale of seduction, obsession and possession, and one of the most popular and celebrated operas ever written.
In this passionate revival, originally directed by Calixto Bieito, expect red flags, fiery drama and endless twists and turns.
Overview
Follow the ill-fated story of weak-willed Don José whose infatuation with the flirtatious, free-spirited Carmen forces him out of the army and lands him in prison. When Carmen’s passion fades, danger lies ahead as she turns her affection to the mysterious bullfighter Escamillo. With love turning to obsession Don José starts to see red.
Staging & Score
In a rebellious twist on tradition, the story is set in 1970’s Spain, where we pick up the drama under a scorching sun in the final days of dictator General Franco’s oppressive regime.
From the vibrant prelude to the dramatic end, Bizet’s seductive score pulsates with passionate melodies and evocative rhythms. Let the Orchestra of ENO transport you to Spain with the click of a castanet. From Carmen’s sultry ‘Habanera’ to Escamillo’s swaggering ‘Toreador song’, this opera has more recognisable tunes than any other. Combining memorable music and a powerful story, it is no wonder that Carmen continues to be one of the most popular operas of all time.
BSL Interpreted:
- Monday, 3rd November, 7:00pm
Important Information
This production contains graphic depictions of: domestic violence, sexual assault, murder, scenes of a sexual nature and full male nudity.Age Restrictions
Ages 15+. Children under the age of 5 are not permitted in the auditorium. Children under the age of 16 must be seated with an adult.Performance Times
Now taking bookings for performances up until Wed 5th November 2025.
Show times for each day are below.
Mon
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Tue
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Wed
7.00pm
Thu
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Fri
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Sat
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Sun
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Images & Videos
London Coliseum Details
Bus routes: St. Martin's Lane 24, 29, 176 / 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 87, 91, 139
Night buses: St. Martin's Lane 24, 176, N5, N20, N29, N41, N279 / 6, 23, 139, N9, N15, N11, N13, N21, N26, N44, N47, N87, N89, N91, N155, N343, N551
Nearest rail: Charing Cross
Tube lines: Piccadilly, Northern
Nearest tube: Leicester Square
Directions
from Leicester Square :
(3mins) Take Cranbourn Street until St Martin’s Lane, where you head right until you reach the theatre.
Car park: Q-Park: Chinatown (5mins) / Other: St Martin's Lane Hotel (1min)
In congestion zone?: Yes
Facilities at London Coliseum
Air conditioned
Bar
Disabled toilets
Infrared hearing loop
Toilets
Wheelchair accessible
London Coliseum Location
Please note: The location shown on the map is an approximate location of the theatre. In the majority of cases the theatre will be marked on the map so please make sure you locate the exact location yourself. If the theatre is not shown on the map please make sure you locate the correct road name and take account of the directions.
Carmen - English National Opera
London Coliseum, London
Running time: 2hr 50min. Incl. 1 interval.
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