One of opera’s most absorbing coming-of-age stories is re-imagined in 1980s Russia in this brand-new production. Tatyana, a tender young woman, falls hopelessly in love with Eugene Onegin, a dashing, cynical man of the world. Thinking her naïve, he casually rejects her. When, many years later, they meet again, Tatyana is married to another man and the toast of fashionable society. Too late Onegin realises that he loves Tatyana, with devastating consequences for them both.

Tchaikovsky’s most popular opera is a heart-breaking tale of love, regret and missed chances. His music is famed for its emotional depth, sweeping melodies and colourful orchestration, and Eugene Onegin is no different, with live Orchestra and Chorus perfectly capturing all the tenderness and anguish of this ill-fated romance. It’s a timeless classic, given fresh life in this new production.

In a world ruled by an entitled, ruthless elite, Rigoletto leads a double life. Within the corrupt court he is a jester, existing on the margins and despised for his difference. Outside the court he is a loving, fiercely protective father. When his two worlds collide, bitterness and a quest for revenge will see Rigoletto struggling to outrun a curse.

This bold, award-winning production by Femi Elufowoju Jr was lauded with rave reviews and star ratings when it was first performed in 2022. It is opera at its most gripping: a thrilling tale of power, devotion and revenge with unforgettable music to match, including one of opera’s most famous tunes.

Imprisoned for a horrific double murder, Joseph De Rocher asks Sister Helen for spiritual guidance as he awaits execution on Death Row. Despite the misgivings of the sisters of her mission and members of the prison staff, Helen agrees to his request. Caught between the pain and grief of De Rocher’s family and the families of his victims, Helen attempts to lead De Rocher to a confession of his terrible crimes, whatever the emotional cost to herself.

Dead Man Walking is based on the memoir by Sister Helen Prejean (as was the 1995 film starring Susan Sarandon and Sean Penn). It has become one of the most frequently performed operas of the past 25 years. This co-production with English National Opera, Opera North and Finnish National Opera won Best New Opera Production at the  Olivier Awards following its November 2025 performances with ENO, and now comes to audiences in the North with Opera North.