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
Sat 22 Nov 2025 - Mon 5 Jan 2026
Sip and Sketch - Royal Ballet & Opera Costume Design Tour
Royal Opera House
Sun 19 Oct - Sun 23 Nov 2025
Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House
Thu 9 Oct 2025 - Fri 30 Jan 2026
Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Royal Opera House
Fri 17 Oct 2025 - Sat 4 Jul 2026
Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House
Sun 26 Oct 2025 - Sun 26 Apr 2026
What's On at the Royal Opera House, London
Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 9 October 2025 - Friday 30 January 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...The Magic Flute
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Royal Opera House, London
Friday 10 October - Monday 3 November 2025
Mozart's fantastical opera glitters in David McVicar's enchanting production, conducted by French conductor Marie Jacquot in her Covent Garden debut, and Finnegan Downie Dear. ...Live at Lunch
Paul Hamlyn Hall
Friday 10 October 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 ...The Magic and Macabre in Opera Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 10 October - 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...Giustino
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 10 - Saturday 18 October 2025
Handel?s fantastical opera comes to life in this new production, directed by Joe Hill-Gibbins and conducted by La Nuova Musica?s Musical Director, David Bates. ...Like Water for Chocolate
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 11 - Friday 24 October 2025
Passion, mystery and magic combine as potent ingredients in this ballet by Artistic Associate Christopher Wheeldon, inspired by author Laura Esquivel?s modern Mexican classic Like Water for Chocolate. ...Recitals at Lunch
Crush Room
Monday 13 October 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...Thurrock Workshop Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 14 October 2025 - Tuesday 27 January 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 ...Royal Opera House Architecture Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 15 October - Tuesday 9 December 2025
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...Tea and Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 15 October 2025 - Sunday 11 January 2026
Journey behind the scenes and delve into the history of Swan Lake on this ballet-themed tour, complete with a delicious afternoon tea. ...Insights: The Makropulos Case
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 16 October 2025
In its first-ever staging at The Royal Opera House, Jan??ek?s The Makropulos Case is reimagined through a contemporary lens by Katie Mitchell. Join?cast and creatives as they discuss the processes and inspirations behind this new production...Meet the Jette Parker Artists: Jukebox 2025
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 16 October 2025
Hear the newest crop of exciting talent and returning artists in a special afternoon event and evening concert.? ...Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Main Stage
Friday 17 October 2025 - Saturday 4 July 2026
Friends of Covent Garden members have the opportunity to purchase tickets to open rehearsals at the Royal Opera House. ...La Fille mal gardée
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 18 October 2025 - 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.? ...Sip and Sketch - Royal Ballet & Opera Costume Design Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 19 October - Sunday 23 November 2025
Peek inside the Royal Ballet and Opera's costume workroom and witness where designs come to life. Then, relax with a Bellini in the bar while trying your hand at sketching your own designs. The Royal Opera House stage has showcased some of ...
HerStory of the Royal Opera House Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 19 October - Sunday 9 November 2025
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,...The Royal Ballet Costume Sale
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 19 October 2025
This event will take place in the Royal Opera House's stunning Paul Hamlyn Hall. Tickets must be booked in advance. Tickets are for designated one-hour time slots. Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your selected time slot to acco...Little Red Riding Hood
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 23 - Saturday 25 October 2025
Join Little Red on her adventure as she makes friends and discovers the importance of kindness. ...Northern Ballet: Little Red Riding Hood
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 23 - Saturday 25 October 2025
Join Little Red on her adventure as she makes friends and discovers the importance of kindness. ...Children's Alice in Wonderland Adventure Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 25 - Friday 31 October 2025
Get ready to tumble down the rabbit hole and explore the curious world of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. For children ages 5-11 years old. ...Relaxed Performances
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 25 October 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. ...Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 26 October 2025 - 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...Stages and Cells of Covent Garden Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 26 October - 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. ...Insights: Joburg Ballet
Royal Opera House, London
Monday 27 - Tuesday 28 October 2025
As Joburg Ballet prepare for their production Communion of Light in the Linbury Theatre, cast and creatives comes together to explore themes and inspirations behind this production. ...The Royal Ballet in Rehearsal
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 28 October 2025 - 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...The Royal Ballet in Rehearsal - Perspectives
Royal Opera House, London
Tuesday 28 October 2025
Watch The Royal Ballet dancers and coaches in rehearsal as they prepare for Perspectives on the Main Stage. ...Communion of Light
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 30 October - Sunday 2 November 2025
The South African company?s mixed programme presents the work of Dada Masilo, Jorge P?rez Mart?nez, Hannah Ma and Dane Hurst in celebration of South Africa?s 30th year of democracy.? ...Insights: The Royal Ballet in Rehearsal
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 30 October 2025 - 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. ...Joburg Ballet: Communion of Light
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 30 October - Sunday 2 November 2025
The South African company?s mixed programme presents the work of Dada Masilo, Jorge P?rez Mart?nez, Hannah Ma and Dane Hurst in celebration of South Africa?s 30th year of democracy.? ...Pride of the ROH Tour
Royal Opera House, London
Sunday 2 November 2025
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...
Royal Opera - The Makropulos Case
Main Stage
Tuesday 4 - Friday 21 November 2025
Acclaimed director Katie Mitchell stages a new production of Janacek's haunting and enigmatic opera The Makropulos Case, which puts the human soul on the stand. In its first-ever staging with The Royal Opera, Janacek's haunting and enigmat...The Royal Ballet in Rehearsal - The Nutcracker
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 12 November 2025
Watch The Royal Ballet dancers and coaches in rehearsal as they prepare for The Nutcracker on the Main Stage. ...Perspectives: Balanchine Marston and Peck
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 14 November - Tuesday 2 December 2025
Revel in the poetry of movement with George Balanchine?s Serenade, the world premiere of a new ballet by Cathy Marston and Justin Peck?s Everywhere We Go, the first of the American choreographer?s works to be performed by The Royal Ballet.?...Perspectives: Balanchine Marston Peck
Royal Opera House, London
Friday 14 November - Tuesday 2 December 2025
Revel in the poetry of movement with George Balanchine?s Serenade, the world premiere of a new ballet by Cathy Marston and Justin Peck?s Everywhere We Go, the first of the American choreographer?s works to be performed by The Royal Ballet.?...London City Ballet: Rebirth - Robbins Page Ratmansky New Tash Chu
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 19 - Saturday 22 November 2025
The ballet company brings an exciting programme of new commissions and lesser-known works. ? ...Rebirth: Robbins Page Ratmansky New Tash Chu
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 19 - Saturday 22 November 2025
The ballet company brings an exciting programme of new commissions and lesser-known works. ? ...Insights: Ariodante
Royal Opera House, London
Thursday 20 November 2025
As Jetske Mijnssen?s new production of Handel's?Ariodante prepares for the stage, cast and creatives come together in this exclusive Insight to explore the composer's rich and thrilling?opera.? ...Royal Ballet - The Nutcracker
Main Stage
Saturday 22 November 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...Insights: London City Ballet Class on Stage
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 22 November 2025
Join dancers from London City Ballet in this exclusive Insight watching their ballet class, live on the Linbury Theatre stage. ...The Making of The Nutcracker tour
Royal Opera House, London
Saturday 22 November 2025 - Saturday 3 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
Saturday 22 November 2025 - Monday 5 January 2026
The Nutcracker at Royal Opera House...The Nutcracker Tickets
Royal Opera House, London
Wednesday 26 November - Monday 22 December 2025
The Nutcracker at Royal Opera House...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. ...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. ...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...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 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...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. ...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 Godunov
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. ...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 Dance
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.? ...
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 LiverpoolTheatres.com isn't the venue itself. We promote what's on at the Royal Opera House and all other venues in Liverpool 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
Sat 22 Nov 2025 - Mon 5 Jan 2026
Sip and Sketch - Royal Ballet & Opera Costume Design Tour
Royal Opera House
Sun 19 Oct - Sun 23 Nov 2025
Royal Opera House Behind the Scenes Tour
Royal Opera House
Thu 9 Oct 2025 - Fri 30 Jan 2026
Open Rehearsals for Friends of Covent Garden
Royal Opera House
Fri 17 Oct 2025 - Sat 4 Jul 2026
Royal Opera House Family Sundays
Royal Opera House
Sun 26 Oct 2025 - Sun 26 Apr 2026
