Crown Prince Rudolf is tormented by dark obsessions, fixated by the idea of his own death. He cannot find solace in friends and family, except for one person: the young and beautiful Baroness Mary Vetsera. She too, shares his morbid interests. Stifled by the oppressive conventions and pageantry of the Austro-Hungarian court, Rudolf and Mary start meeting in secret. As fervent desire combines with a fascination for death, what begins as a clandestine love affair hurtles towards tragedy.
Kenneth MacMillan’s 1978 ballet draws upon the gripping real-life series of events surrounding the murder-suicide scandal of Crown Prince Rudolf and his mistress Mary Vetsera, also known as the ‘Mayerling incident’ or the ‘Mayerling affair’. A signature of The Royal Ballet repertory, Mayerling has all the hallmarks of a MacMillan ballet. Ensemble scenes show off the Company at its dramatic finest, while the lead roles – portraying the searing inners depths of the human psyche – offer abundant interpretative opportunities for the Company’s Principals.
📍 Venue Description:
The Royal Opera House is a monumental venue, offering some of the world’s finest operatic experiences, right in the heart of London. Known for its stunning productions and rich history, it is a must-visit for any opera enthusiast. As a cornerstone of the cultural scene, it’s the perfect gateway to explore the vibrant offerings of <a href="https://www.londontheatredirect.com/opera">London opera</a>, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary works.
It is the home of The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. Originally called the Theatre Royal, it served primarily as a playhouse for the first hundred years of its history. In 1734, the first ballet was presented. A year later Handel's first season of operas began. Many of his operas and oratorios were specifically written for Covent Garden and had their premieres there.
The current building is the third theatre on the site following disastrous fires in 1808 and 1857. The façade, foyer and auditorium date from 1858, but almost every other element of the present complex dates from an extensive reconstruction in the 1990s. The Royal Opera House seats 2,268 people and consists of four tiers of boxes and balconies and the amphitheatre gallery. The proscenium is 12.20 m wide and 14.80 m high. The main auditorium is a Grade 1 listed building.
🎉 Prepare to be amazed at Mayerling, the most anticipated gathering of the season! 🌟 Set against the stunning backdrop of Royal Opera House in vibrant London, EN, this event promises to redefine your expectations. 📅 Mark your calendars for March 30th, 2026 at 07:00 PM and get ready to immerse yourself in an atmosphere of wonder and excitement. ✨ From the moment you arrive, you'll be transported into a world where memories are made and stories come alive. They have crafted an experience that perfectly harmonizes entertainment, innovation, and community spirit. ✨ With tickets available at 43.00 GBP, your journey awaits. 🌈 Join us as we create moments that will be discussed for years!
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Royal Opera House, Bow Street, Royal Opera House, London, United Kingdom











