Jenufa

Jenufa

Royal Opera House

2/5 based on 1 review (read reviews)
  • Opens: Wednesday, 15 January 2025 -
    Booking until: Saturday, 1 February 2025
  • Running time: 2hr 55min. Incl. 1 Interval.
Jenufa photos
Jenufa
Jenufa description

A tale of honour, love and sacrifice, Jenůfa explores the stigma of pregnancy out of wedlock against the backdrop of a small community.

Loved by two half-brothers, Jenůfa is secretly pregnant by one of them. Abandoned by the child’s father, she gives birth alone, only assisted by her stepmother. Unaware of the child, the second brother pledges to marry Jenůfa, but, as their wedding looms, tragedy strikes.

Concerned for the family’s reputation, her stepmother commits an unspeakable act in the hope that dishonour is averted and Jenůfa does not remain alone. But when a baby’s body is found in the river on the wedding day, the devastating truth is revealed to all.

Directed by David Alden, ENO’s Olivier Award-winning staging updates the setting to an isolated 20th century industrial estate in the Eastern Bloc, giving the story a contemporary edge that makes it feel even more relevant for today’s audiences.

Janáček’s powerfully rich score is conducted by Keri-Lynn Wilson. Soprano Jennifer Davis makes her role debut as Jenůfa, with Susan Bullock as her stepmother Kostelnička and Richard Trey Smagur making his ENO debut as Laca. ENO Harewood Artist, John Findon, sings Steva.

Playing at Royal Opera House

Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD GB (venue info)

Royal Opera House Directions

Age restrictions

Ages 12+. Children under the age of five are not permitted into our theatres. Children over age five must have their own ticket and sit next to an accompanying adult.

Important information

This production contains moderate violence and references to infanticide. This production also features flashing lights.

Performance Times
Mon 19:30
Tue -
Wed 19:30
Thu -
Fri 19:30
Sat 18:30
Sun -
Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD GB Jenufa Cast
Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD GB Jenufa Cast
Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD GB Jenufa Cast
Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD GB Jenufa Cast
Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD GB Jenufa Cast