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Richard Jones directs a new staging of Bellini’s last opera I puritani, featuring a sublime score and a passionate love story.In a world of opposition, Elvira, a Puritan maiden, is in love with Arturo, a Royalist. Though her father initially opposes the match, he eventually agrees to their union. So far, so good – until their wedding day, when Arturo discovers that a Royalist prisoner needs help escaping and leaves Elvira, causing her to believe he has abandoned her for another woman. Heartbroken, she descends into madness. When Arturo, accused of treason, faces execution, the young couple's happiness is further threatened...
Vincenzo Bellini’s bel canto masterpiece is transformed in Richard Jones’ compelling new staging, which stars Lisette Oropesa as the devoted and deeply vulnerable heroine Elvira, and Francesco Demuro as her courageous lover. With virtuosic coloratura passages and ethereal, otherworldly arias, Bellini’s score imbues I puritani with profound emotional depth, the opera exploring, in equal parts, the tenderness of true love and the shattering anguish of loss. Conductor Riccardo Frizza makes his debut with The Royal Opera.
📍 Venue Description: ## About Royal Ballet and Opera
Royal Ballet and Opera is London’s world‑renowned home for opera, ballet and orchestral performance, recently rebranded from the Royal Opera House to better reflect the prominence of both The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera within one united organisation.
This iconic venue sits in the heart of Covent Garden, West End, and presents a thrilling programme of classical [opera](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/opera "opera"), breathtaking ballet productions, [dance](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/dance "dance") and live music throughout the year. The venue’s cultural heritage, striking architecture and central London location make it a must‑visit destination for arts lovers from around the UK and beyond.
### History of Royal Ballet and Opera
Originally opened as the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden in 1732, the building became the official home of Covent Garden’s opera and ballet companies. Over time it established a reputation as one of the most prestigious performing arts venues in the world.
The current structure on Bow Street dates from the mid‑19th century after earlier buildings were lost to fire, and was comprehensively restored and modernised in the 1990s to support contemporary productions and audience experiences. Today, its main auditorium seats over 2,250 people across multiple tiers, combining historic grandeur with state‑of‑the‑art production facilities.
### Where is the Royal Ballet and Opera?
Bow Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9DD. Located in the vibrant West End theatre district, the venue sits on the famous Covent Garden Piazza — a lively area filled with shops, restaurants and street performers that enrich the visitor experience.
### Nearest Underground & Train Stations
- Covent Garden Underground Station (Piccadilly Line) — a short walk from the venue.
- Leicester Square and Holborn stations are also within ~8–10 minutes’ walk and offer alternative tube access.
- Charing Cross and other mainline stations are within walking distance, providing rail links from across London and beyond.
### Buses to Royal Ballet and Opera
Several daytime and night‑time London buses stop near Covent Garden Piazza and Aldwych, including routes 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 23, 68, 76, 91, 168, 171, 176, 188 and more, making public transport a convenient option for audiences.
### Accessibility at Royal Ballet and Opera
The venue is committed to accessibility for all visitors, offering step‑free access from multiple entrances on Bow Street and Covent Garden Piazza, lifts and ramps to front‑of‑house spaces, and designated wheelchair spaces within performance areas. An Access Scheme provides tailored support, companion tickets and assistive services such as audio descriptions and British Sign Language interpreted performances. Assistance dogs are welcome.
### Dress Code and Visitor Experience
There is no formal dress code, although smart casual attire is commonly chosen by guests attending performances. Inside, visitors can enjoy bars, restaurants and a café for pre‑show meals, intervals and post‑performance drinks. A ground‑floor shop offers curated merchandise inspired by the art form and venue heritage.
### Safety at Royal Ballet and Opera
For patron safety, security checks including bag inspections may take place at entrances. Visitors are advised to arrive early and follow venue guidance to maintain a comfortable and secure environment for all.
🎉 Welcome to I Puritani , where the impossible becomes possible and dreams take flight! 🏛️ Join us at Royal Ballet and Opera in the heart of London, EN for an event that will redefine your expectations. 📅 On June 30th, 2026 at 07:00 PM, witness the transformation of space and time into something truly magical. ✨ It's a curated experience combining the best of innovation, entertainment, and community spirit, creating moments that will be remembered for years to come. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned enthusiast, prepare to be amazed. ✨ With tickets available at 56.00 GBP, your journey awaits. 🎊 Book now to ensure your place in this unforgettable experience!
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Royal Ballet and Opera, Bow Street, Royal Ballet and Opera, London, United Kingdom
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