ADRIANA MATER, an opera that will stay with you long after the curtain falls, will be live at the London Coliseum in 2026.
Like father, like son…?
In a world shaped by war, Kaija Saariaho’s opera, Adriana Mater finds hope where it seems impossible. Powerful and rarely staged, this ENO debut unites Artistic Director Annilese Miskimmon and Music Director Designate André de Ridder in their first collaboration.
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.
Book your ADRIANA MATER theatre tickets with LOVEtheatre today!
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.
Tickets are available for performances from 28 November – 12 December 2026.
Age Recommendation: 15+
Content Warnings: This opera depicts violence and sexual violence including a rape, depictions of alcoholism, scenes of war and contemplation of murder.
Sung in English, with surtitles projected above the stage.
2 hours 45 minutes, with one interval.
André de Ridder (Conductor), Annilese Miskimmon (Director), Kaija Saariaho (Music), Amin Maalouf (Libretto), Aleksi Barrière (English Translation)
