WHAT'S ON AT THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, LONDON
What's On at the Royal Opera House, London
The Royal Opera House, also known as The Royal Ballet and Opera, is home to The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet. It originally opened in 1732 but is the third building on this site. Within two years of opening, Handel’s operas were being performed. Many were specifically written for the venue and had their premiere there.
The Royal Opera House is the third largest auditorium in London with a seating capacity of 2’256. As well as operas and ballets, the venue hosts behind the scenes tours, open rehearsal events, family days, recitals, summer schools, afternoon teas, and tea dances. Originally opened as a playhouse, the venue performed pantomimes and plays and even became a dance hall during the Second World War.
The Royal Ballet and Opera is also home to The Paul Hamlyn Hall, the main public area often used for events, conferences, dances, exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. The Linbury Studio Theatre has a capacity of 400 and is a flexible theatre space. Events to look forward to include A Single Man, Tosca, The Magic Flute, Little Red Riding Hood, and The Nutcracker. Book your tickets online below for The Royal Opera House.
The Royal Opera House, also known as The Royal Ballet and Opera, is home to The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet. It originally opened in 1732 but is the third building on this site. Within two years of opening, Handel’s operas were being performed. Many were specifically written for the venue and had their premiere there.
The Royal Opera House is the third largest auditorium in London with a seating capacity of 2’256. As well as operas and ballets, the venue hosts behind the scenes tours, open rehearsal events, family days, recitals, summer schools, afternoon teas, and tea dances. Originally opened as a playhouse, the venue performed pantomimes and plays and even became a dance hall during the Second World War.
The Royal Ballet and Opera is also home to The Paul Hamlyn Hall, the main public area often used for events, conferences, dances, exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. The Linbury Studio Theatre has a capacity of 400 and is a flexible theatre space. Events to look forward to include A Single Man, Tosca, The Magic Flute, Little Red Riding Hood, and The Nutcracker. Book your tickets online below for The Royal Opera House.
Most Popular Shows and Events at Royal Opera House, London
Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House
Wed 28 Jan - Thu 30 Apr 2026
Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House
Sun 1 Feb - Sun 14 Jun 2026
Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Royal Opera House
Fri 13 Feb - Sat 4 Jul 2026
Royal Opera House Architecture Tour
Royal Opera House
Thu 29 Jan - Fri 27 Mar 2026
What's On at the Royal Opera House, London
Royal Opera - La Traviata
Main Stage
Wednesday 28 January - Tuesday 17 February 2026
Heart-rending arias meet harsh realities in this captivating story. Experience the devastating beauty of Verdi's music in some of opera's most famous tunes. A moving story about a woman in love that features one of opera's most famous melod...Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 28 January - Thursday 30 April 2026
Take a look in the areas that are normally off-limits to the public, including rehearsal studios, costumes and production workshops. Join one of the expert guides and gain unique insight into the many secrets and spaces of the Royal Opera H...Paul Taylor Dance Company: Concertiana + Echo + Esplanade
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 28 - Saturday 31 January 2026
Snapshots of American modern dance, presented by Paul Taylor Dance Company.? ...Royal Opera House Architecture Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 29 January - Friday 27 March 2026
Learn about the architecture of the world-famous Victorian theatre and its transformation over the centuries. Explore the architectural evolution of the Royal Opera House, tracing its remarkable transformation through the ages. Discover the...Boris Godunov
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 29 January - Wednesday 18 February 2026
Richard Jones? acclaimed staging of Mussorgsky?s awe-inspiring opera returns, starring Bryn Terfel as the tormented Tsar. Mark Wigglesworth conducts. ...Insights: Masterclass with Rachel Willis-Sørensen
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 29 January 2026
Join soprano Rachel Willis-S?rensen in this special opera singing masterclass alongside artists from the National Opera Studios. ...Paul Taylor Dance Company: Brandenburgs + Piazzolla Caldera
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 29 - Saturday 31 January 2026
Snapshots of American modern dance, presented by Paul Taylor Dance Company.? ...Paul Taylor Dance Company: Brandenburgs + Under the Rhythm + Piazzolla Caldera
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 29 - Saturday 31 January 2026
Snapshots of American modern dance, presented by Paul Taylor Dance Company.? ...Royal Opera - Turandot
Main Stage
Friday 30 January - Wednesday 4 February 2026
Puccini's captivating opera of a cold-hearted princess and her mysterious suitor. Featuring the ever-popular 'Nessun dorma', this opera of love and revenge is brought to life in a dazzling production by Royal Opera. Drawing on Chinese and I...Live at Lunch
Paul Hamlyn Hall
Friday 30 January - Friday 10 July 2026
Experience an exciting programme of free lunchtime performances inspired by the heritage of the Royal Ballet and Opera. Artists from The Royal Opera, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, The Royal Ballet and a range of guest artists perform ...Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 1 February - Sunday 14 June 2026
Discover opera, ballet and the Royal Opera House with fun-packed creative activities for all the family. Family Sundays are a great way to explore the Royal Opera House, its artists and the world of opera and ballet in a fun relaxed environ...Thurrock Workshop Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 3 February - Tuesday 28 April 2026
Explore the state-of-the-art Bob and Tamar Manoukian Production Workshop and Costume Centre in Purfleet, Essex where expert scenic artists, carpenters and technicians transform design concepts into the spectacular sets and costumes seen on ...Step into the Spotlight - An Exclusive On-Stage Tour of the Royal Opera House
Main Stage
Thursday 5 February 2026
Explore the Main Stage of the Royal Opera House. See behind the scenes, witness technical demos and see how productions come to life with this rare opportunity to stand on the historic stage. Step behind the velvet curtain and onto the stag...The Royal Ballet in Rehearsal
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 5 February 2026
Watch Royal Ballet dancers and coaches in rehearsal as they prepare some of the works they will soon perform on stage. Get a sneak peek of rehearsals for works from the upcoming season before they appear on the Royal Opera House's Main Stag...Insights: The Royal Ballet in Rehearsal
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 5 February - Tuesday 5 May 2026
Watch Royal Ballet dancers and coaches in rehearsal as they prepare some of the works they will soon perform on stage. ...Woolf Works
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 6 - Friday 13 February 2026
Resident Choreographer Wayne McGregor?s experimental ballet triptych inspired by the genre-defying works and writings of Virginia Woolf, set to an original score by Max Richter. ...Divine Divas Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 8 - Sunday 15 February 2026
Step behind the scenes of the Royal Opera House and immerse yourself in the dazzling world of opera?s most extraordinary women ? a celebration of talent, ambition, glamour and sheer star power. ...Recitals at Lunch
Crush Room
Monday 9 February - Monday 20 July 2026
Experience an exciting programme of music in the opulent setting of the historic Royal Opera House Crush Room. These regular lunchtime performances feature artists from The Royal Opera, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Jette Parker Artis...Tea Dance
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 9 February - Monday 6 July 2026
Come dancing and cha-cha-cha along to the Royal Opera House Dance Band, in beautiful surroundings that combine grandeur and elegance. ...Pierrot Lunaire
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 10 - Saturday 21 February 2026
In the year of the American choreographer's centenary, The Royal Ballet revives Glen Tetley?s surreal ballet of melancholy and mischief under the moonlight. ...Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Main Stage
Friday 13 February - Saturday 4 July 2026
Friends of Covent Garden members have the opportunity to purchase tickets to open rehearsals at the Royal Opera House. ...Insights: In Conversation with Antonio Pappano and Barrie Kosky
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 13 February 2026
Join Conductor Laureate of The Royal Opera Antonio Pappano and director Barrie Kosky in conversation as they explore the third chapter of Wagner's Ring cycle, Siegfried, before it opens on the Main Stage in March.?? ...Pride of the ROH Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 14 February - Sunday 19 April 2026
Explore the rich contributions made by the LGBTQ+ icons who have helped shape The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera. From the enduring legacy of choreographer Frederick Ashton and composer George Frideric Handel, who challenged traditional...Tea and Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 14 February - Sunday 19 April 2026
Journey behind the scenes and delve into the history of Swan Lake on this ballet-themed tour, complete with a delicious afternoon tea. ...Children's Alice in Wonderland Adventure Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 14 February - Saturday 11 April 2026
A playful, immersive journey through Alice?s Adventures in Wonderland, featuring storytelling, movement, behind-the-scenes magic and a colouring activity. ...Giselle
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 14 February - Friday 20 March 2026
Experience the quintessential Romantic ballet Giselle?in Peter Wright?s atmospheric and bewitching production. ...Giselle London Tickets
Relaxed Performances
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 17 February - Saturday 6 June 2026
Find out about our Relaxed Performances, which are designed to support neurodiverse audiences, those living with dementia, have learning disabilities or experience anxiety. ...Ballet Black at 25
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 23 February - Saturday 7 March 2026
Cassa Pancho's Ballet Black celebrates its 25th Anniversary with a landmark double bill featuring Ingoma (2019), the choreographic debut of former Company dancer, Mthuthuzeli November. Inspired by the 1946 South African miners' strike - a ...HerStory of the Royal Opera House Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 7 March - Saturday 18 April 2026
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Royal Opera House and discover the stories of the incredible women who have shaped its legacy since the 18th century. This tour takes you through the remarkable journeys of those who have managed,...Insights: The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House in Rehearsal - RigolettoÂ
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 16 March 2026
Fifty years after his Covent Garden debut with Rigoletto, Sir Mark Elder returns to the podium to conduct the very same opera. Join Sir Mark, as he leads members of the Orchestra in rehearsal from the orchestra pit.?? ...Royal Opera - Siegfried
Main Stage
Tuesday 17 March - Monday 6 April 2026
Conductor Antonio Pappano and director Barrie Kosky return for the triumphant third chapter of Wagner's Ring cycle. Moments of transcendent beauty and heroic triumph sparkle in the third chapter of Wagner's Ring cycle, brought to life u...New English Ballet Theatre: Covent Garden ChoreographicsÂ
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 21 March 2026
New English Ballet Theatre presents Covent Garden Choreographics, a vibrant evening of new works and revivals by choreographers connected to The Royal Ballet and the Royal Opera House. ...Rigoletto
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 25 March - Thursday 23 April 2026
Verdi?s most famous opera returns, with Oliver Mears? darkly elegant production. Acclaimed Verdi specialist Mark Elder conducts. ...The Turn of the Screw
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 26 March - Monday 6 April 2026
Benjamin Britten?s chilling opera on fear, guilt and the corrupt depths of the human psyche comes to life in an atmospheric new staging.? ...Mayerling
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 30 March - Monday 18 May 2026
An intoxicating mix of dangerous desires, family secrets and political intrigue spirals into a royal disaster in Kenneth MacMillan?s psychologically thrilling ballet, inspired by real life events. ...Insights: Discovering BrittenÂ
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 31 March 2026
As?Peter Grimes returns to the Main Stage and a new production of The Turn of the Screw arrives in the Linbury Theatre for Spring 2026, this special Insights event explores the themes, inspirations and characters behind Benjamin Britten'...International Draft Works 2026
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 16 - Saturday 18 April 2026
New works made by emerging choreographic voices are presented by The Royal Ballet, together with various international companies. ...International Draft Works 2025
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 16 - Saturday 18 April 2026
A showcase of the ever-changing art form of ballet. ...Wayne McGregor: Alchemies
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 18 April - Wednesday 6 May 2026
The world premiere of a new ballet by Wayne McGregor, alongside Yugen, a poetic response to Leonard Bernstein?s Chichester Psalms, and Untitled, 2023, his powerful artistic collaboration with Carmen Herrera. ? ...Insights: Three Chamber Operas Â
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 22 April 2026
Join the Jette Parker Artists as they prepare to bring their annual performance to the Linbury Theatre Stage.? ...Insights: Samson et Dalila
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 27 April 2026
Join cast and creatives from Richard Jones? production of Samson et Dalila as they discuss Camille Saint-Sa?ns? biblical epic. ...Jette Parker Artists: Three Chamber Operas
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 1 - Saturday 9 May 2026
The Jette Parker Artists perform works by Elizabeth Maconchy, Charlotte Bray and Elena Langer. ...Royal Opera - Peter Grimes
Main Stage
Tuesday 5 - Thursday 28 May 2026
Britten's brooding opera returns. Deborah Warner's staging foregrounds the vulnerability and volatility of the shunned Peter Grimes, and the tragic conflict between the individual and group. Allan Clayton, Bryn Terfel and Maria Bengtsson st...Young RBO Exclusive - Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 11 May 2026
This tour is available exclusively to Young RBO members. Get a unique look behind the scenes at the Royal Opera House with this exclusive Young RBO member tour. Discover the artistry and craftsmanship that bring every performance to li...Young RBO Nights
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 11 May 2026
Join us for our exclusive Young RBO Nights, where we take over the auditorium, giving you the chance to experience world-class ballet and opera with friends. ...Samson et Dalila
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 13 May - Wednesday 3 June 2026
Richard Jones?s ?vibrant? (The Guardian) production returns, starring the electrifying Aigul Akhmetshina and SeokJong Baek as the biblical lovers. ...Tulsa Ballet: Made in America
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 13 - Sunday 17 May 2026
Oklahoma?s premier ballet company performs in the Linbury Theatre for the first time, bringing works by Yuri Possokhov, Nicolo Fonte and Andy Blankenbuehler. ...Gala
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 14 May 2026
Jakub Hr??a and Martin Georgiev conduct the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, and the Royal Opera Chorus, in a showcase of the finest artists of The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera. ...Spring Gala: Stories from The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 14 May 2026
Jakub Hr??a and Martin Georgiev conduct the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, and the Royal Opera Chorus, in a showcase of the finest artists of The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera. ...La Fille mal gardée
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 23 May - Tuesday 9 June 2026
Escape to the countryside with Frederick Ashton?s ballet about a capricious girl who hopes to marry her love. Brimming with humour and choreographic invention, La Fille mal gard?e is the perfect ballet for all the family.? ...Insights: So Are We - León and Lightfoot
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 29 May 2026
As The Royal Ballet prepares to present two Company premieres by acclaimed contemporary choreographic duo, Sol Le?n and Paul Lightfoot, join us for this special Insights exploring the themes and inspirations behind this mixed programme. ...The Marriage of Figaro
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 4 June - Thursday 2 July 2026
Mozart?s comic opera is packed with plot twists, forbidden desires and unforgettable melodies, combining laugh-out-loud comedy with moments of breathtaking beauty. ...Insights: I puritaniÂ
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 9 June 2026
Richard Jones returns to The Royal Opera for a new staging of I?puritani. Join cast and creatives as they discuss the opera, from its ?sublime score and spectacular arias to the passionate and shattering love story at its core.? ...So Are We: León and Lightfoot
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 11 - Saturday 20 June 2026
The Royal Ballet presents two Company premieres by Spanish/British choreographers Sol Le?n and Paul Lightfoot. This stirring mixed programme marks the first time a British company performs the work of the acclaimed contemporary choreographi...Anna Netrebko in Recital
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 24 June 2026
Anna Netrebko performs an intimate recital on the main stage of the Royal Opera House, with piano accompaniment by Pavel Nebolsin. ...
I puritani
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 30 June - Sunday 19 July 2026
Richard Jones directs a new staging of Bellini?s last opera I puritani, featuring a sublime score and a passionate love story. ...Royal Opera - La Bohème
Main Stage
Wednesday 1 - Saturday 25 July 2026
With its Parisian setting, tender exploration of first love and both humorous and heartbreaking celebration of friendship, La boheme captivates audiences time and time again, making it the perfect choice for your first visit to the opera. R...La bohème
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 1 - Saturday 25 July 2026
Experience your first opera with Puccini?s famous love story, or return to The Royal Opera for an enduring favourite. ...How to get to the Royal Opera House, London
Royal Opera House Frequently Asked Questions
Bow Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9DD
The Royal Opera House does not have its own car park. On street parking is limited with disabled bays available on Bow Street and Floral Street.
You can receive 30% off by pre booking at the Intelli Park Car Park on Drury Lane.
Tube - Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Tottenham Court Road
Bus - Aldwych, Drury Lane, Leicester Square Station
The seating capacity of The Royal Opera House is 2'256.
You can visit their seating plan.
For further information on tickets at the Royal Opera House, you can visit their returns and refunds page, or their attending a performance page.
The Royal Opera House box office is open:
12 noon - 6pm, or until the start of an evening performance.
Alternatively, you can see what's on and book online here.
It is open Monday - Saturday.
On performance Sundays, it will open 90 minutes before the performance begins.
For individual shows and concerts, if the timing is not listed under our 'more info' tab for that particular event, you check it out via the 'more info' tab for your show here.
You can fin more information on accessibility at the Royal Opera House via their accessibility page.
Whether you have positive or negative feedback you would like to pass on to the Royal Opera House, you can email them .
If you lose an item during your visit to the Royal Opera House, email them with a description of your item an the date and performance / time of your visit. They keep items for one month.
Either use the map at the side of the FAQ section as it has all types of accomodation or click here for accommodation near the Royal Opera House.
Food and drink are not permitted into the Royal Opera House. However you may take in a none glass reusable water bottle and fill it with water inside the building.
Late arrivals may need to wait in the foyer for a suitable break in the performance. This could be up to 90 minutes. Performances start promtly.
Click here for some great places and ideas for food whilst in London.
For further information and support regarding your visit to the Royal Opera House, you can visit their visitor information or visit their help centre.
Please note that LondonTheatres.com isn't the venue itself. We promote what's on at the Royal Opera House and all other venues in London and the local region. Feel free to contact us if you need more help though and we'll do our best to support you.
Most Popular Shows and Events at Royal Opera House, London
Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House
Wed 28 Jan - Thu 30 Apr 2026
Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House
Sun 1 Feb - Sun 14 Jun 2026
Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Royal Opera House
Fri 13 Feb - Sat 4 Jul 2026
Royal Opera House Architecture Tour
Royal Opera House
Thu 29 Jan - Fri 27 Mar 2026
