Adriana Mater - English National Opera

Adriana Mater - English National Opera

London Coliseum

  • Opens: Saturday, 28 November 2026 -
    Booking until: Saturday, 12 December 2026
  • Running time: 2hr 45min. Incl. 1 interval.
Adriana Mater - English National Opera description

Amid a brutal civil war, Adriana becomes pregnant following a violent assault by a soldier. She chooses to give birth to the child she conceives, naming her son Yonas and raising him with love and hope for the future, whilst shielding him from the truth about his father. Many years later the young man discovers the truth of his origin, and becomes consumed by the desire for revenge.

In a gripping climax, Adriana tries to convince Yonas that true strength lies in mercy, not murder. And that, only by breaking the male cycle of violence, will they, and their country, truly be healed.

Righting the wrongs of Tosca, Adriana Mater forms the second half of a bold narrative arc contributing to a season that brings stories of resistance, resilience, hope and what it means to be free.

Experience Adriana Mater as a stand-alone story, or paired with Tosca as the second half of a bold narrative arc contributing to a season that brings stories of resistance, resilience, hope and what it means to be free.

BSL Interpreted:

  • Tuesday, 8th December, 7:00pm
Playing at London Coliseum

St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES GB (venue info)

London Coliseum Directions

Age restrictions

Ages 15+.

Important information

Sung in English, with surtitles projected above the stage.

This opera depicts violence and sexual violence including a rape, depictions of alcoholism, scenes of war and contemplation of murder.