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 Ballet - The Nutcracker
Royal Opera House
Fri 5 Dec 2025 - Mon 5 Jan 2026
Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House
Sun 18 Jan - Sun 26 Apr 2026
Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House
Fri 5 Dec 2025 - Tue 31 Mar 2026
Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Royal Opera House
Sat 6 Dec 2025 - Sat 4 Jul 2026
Royal Opera House Architecture Tour
Royal Opera House
Tue 9 Dec 2025 - Fri 27 Mar 2026
What's On at the Royal Opera House, London
Royal Ballet - The Nutcracker
Main Stage
Friday 5 December 2025 - Monday 5 January 2026
Light up your Christmas with Peter Wright's enchanting production of The Nutcracker. Peter Wright's production of The Nutcracker has been enchanting children and adults alike since its first performance by The Royal Ballet in 1984. Julia...Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 5 December 2025 - Tuesday 31 March 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...Live at Lunch
Paul Hamlyn Hall
Friday 5 December 2025 - Friday 24 April 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 ...Last Days
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 5 December 2025 - Saturday 3 January 2026
The critically acclaimed operatic adaptation of Gus Van Sant?s film Last Days returns. ...The Making of The Nutcracker tour
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 5 December 2025 - Monday 5 January 2026
Step into the enchanting world of The Nutcracker like never before. This exclusive behind-the-scenes experience takes you deep into the creative heart of the Royal Opera House, revealing the hidden artistry and meticulous craftsmanship that...The Nutcracker London Tickets
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 5 December 2025 - Monday 5 January 2026
The Nutcracker at Royal Opera House...Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Main Stage
Saturday 6 December 2025 - Saturday 4 July 2026
Friends of Covent Garden members have the opportunity to purchase tickets to open rehearsals at the Royal Opera House. ...Children&39;s The Nutcracker Adventure Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 6 December 2025 - Sunday 4 January 2026
Get ready for an enchanting and playful journey through the (paper!) snow to the imaginary land of the sweets, as you explore the world of The Nutcracker. For children ages 5-12 years old. ...Children's The Nutcracker Adventure Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 6 December 2025 - Sunday 4 January 2026
Children and adults alike can enjoy learning about and experiencing the behind-the-scenes magic that brings The Nutcracker to life on our stage. ...Pride of the ROH Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 7 December 2025 - Saturday 14 February 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
Sunday 7 December 2025 - Sunday 15 March 2026
Journey behind the scenes and delve into the history of Swan Lake on this ballet-themed tour, complete with a delicious afternoon tea. ...Recitals at Lunch
Crush Room
Monday 8 December 2025 - Monday 27 April 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 8 December 2025 - Monday 27 April 2026
Come dancing and cha-cha-cha along to the Royal Opera House Dance Band, in beautiful surroundings that combine grandeur and elegance. ...Insights: Last Days
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 8 December 2025
Composer Oliver Leith and librettist/co-director Matt Copson reflect on their opera?Last Days, based on Gus Van Sant's 2005 film. ...Royal Opera House Architecture Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 9 December 2025 - 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...Ariodante
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 9 - Sunday 21 December 2025
Ariodante?s perfect life comes crumbling down around him when his fianc?e, Ginevra, is accused of infidelity. With the evidence stacked against her, can Ginevra clear her name? And can harmony be restored? Dutch director Jetske Mijnssen mak...Paul Hamlyn Hall Christmas Performances
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 11 - Wednesday 17 December 2025
Get in the Christmas spirit with free pop up performances throughout the festive Season in the stunning Paul Hamlyn Hall. ...Stages and Cells of Covent Garden Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 12 - Saturday 27 December 2025
Join Bow Street Museum of Crime and Justice and the Royal Opera House on this outdoor walking tour to discover the relationship between theatre and crime in Covent Garden. ...The Nutcracker Tickets
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 13 - Monday 22 December 2025
The Nutcracker at Royal Opera House...Royal Opera - Turandot
Main Stage
Monday 15 December 2025 - 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...The Magic and Macabre in Opera Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 15 December 2025
Not all operas end happily ever after. Immerse yourself in the wicked world of theatre villains, divas and dark magic on this unique, themed Royal Opera House tour. Venture backstage to learn about some of the most iconic characters and pro...Thurrock Workshop Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 16 December 2025 - Tuesday 31 March 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 ...The Royal Ballet Class on Stage
Main Stage
Wednesday 17 December 2025
Get a glimpse into the daily life of the dancers of The Royal Ballet as they take class on the Main Stage. Morning class is a vital part of each day for dancers of The Royal Ballet. Catch this rare opportunity to watch them warm up and prep...Relaxed Performances
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 20 December 2025 - 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. ...La traviata
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 8 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. ...HerStory of the Royal Opera House Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 11 January - Sunday 15 March 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: Masterclass with Ermonela Jaho
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 13 January 2026
Join soprano Ermonela Jaho alongside members of the Jette Parker Artists Programme in this opera masterclass. ...Insights: Boris GodunovÂ
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 15 January 2026
As they prepare to perform Boris Godunov on the Main Stage, members of the cast and creative team discuss the story, themes and inspirations behind Mussorgsky?s masterpiece. ...Insights: Woolf Works
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 16 January 2026
Experience Royal Ballet dancers and coaches in rehearsal as they prepare for the return of Wayne McGregor?s Woolf Works on the Main Stage.?? ...Woolf Works
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 17 January - 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. ...Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 18 January - Sunday 26 April 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...Yorke Dance Project: Modern Milestones
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 19 - Thursday 22 January 2026
The company pays homage to Martha Graham, Robert Cohan and Bella Lewitzky and presents the world premiere of two new creations by Christopher Bruce and Liam Francis.? ...Insights: American Modern DanceÂ
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 23 January 2026
Join cast and creatives as they delve into the rich lineage of American modern dance that will be showcased in the Linbury Theatre this Season ...Young RBO Nights
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 26 January - 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. ...Paul Taylor Dance Company: Brandenburgs + Piazzolla Caldera
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 27 - 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
Tuesday 27 - Saturday 31 January 2026
Snapshots of American modern dance, presented by Paul Taylor Dance Company.? ...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.? ...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. ...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. ...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. ...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.?? ...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. ...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 ...Giselle London Tickets
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. ...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 Ballet - The Nutcracker
Royal Opera House
Fri 5 Dec 2025 - Mon 5 Jan 2026
Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House
Sun 18 Jan - Sun 26 Apr 2026
Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House
Fri 5 Dec 2025 - Tue 31 Mar 2026
Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Royal Opera House
Sat 6 Dec 2025 - Sat 4 Jul 2026
Royal Opera House Architecture Tour
Royal Opera House
Tue 9 Dec 2025 - Fri 27 Mar 2026
