Partenope - English National Opera

When it comes to Partenope’s love life, complicated doesn’t quite cover it. Settle in for Handel’s first operatic rom com, where all isn’t fair in love and war.

This critically acclaimed production won an Olivier Award for Best New Opera Production when it premiered in 2008. Since then, it has been seen all around the world and returns to the London Coliseum for its second revival.

OverviewFinding The One isn’t easy. Especially when you’re tangled up in a tricky love quadrangle.

Join our social butterfly Partenope and her three potential suitors – Arsace, Armindo and Eurimene – in this timeless tale where boys meet girl, girl falls for boy, and another ‘boy’ is really a girl looking for revenge on a boy… keeping up?

Find out if love is on the cards and if honesty wins, in this complex game of romance, where not everything (or everyone) is as it seems.

Discover more about the story of Partenope on our dedicated page.

Staging & ScoreSet in a 1920’s Paris salon, Christopher Alden’s production is inspired by the surrealist artists of the time including Salvador Dali and Man Ray, with the character of Emilio being based on Man Ray himself.

With non-stop parties, bottomless cocktails, endless card games and some questionable disguises, the scene is set for romance, complemented by Handel’s captivating score which brings each character’s emotions to life beautifully. Don’t miss this fun, classy and charming battle for Partenope’s heart.

Singers & CreativesOur socialite Partenope is played by former Harewood artist, Nardus Williams, Winner of the Rising Talent award at the 2022 International Opera Awards. Her suitors Arsace, Emilio and Armindo are played by Hugh Cutting, Ru Charlesworth, and Jake Ingbar.

This award-winning production will once again be directed by Christopher Alden and conducted by Christian Curnyn.

Co-produced with Opera Australia.

This production has been made possible through the generous support of a syndicate comprising Liz Cratchley OBE, Alan Karr & Jeanne Ruane, Vincent Mercer & Anzo Francis, Kate Olver & Jeremy Young, and Leo Toralballa.

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 Sat 6th December 2025.

Show times for each day are below.

London Coliseum Details

Facilities at London Coliseum

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.