Romance can be such a chore

New for our 25/26 season, it’s Cinderella, but not as you know it.

Set in contemporary London, this fresh take on the family and fairytale favourite, is a modern-day re-imagination of Gioachino Rossini‘s romantic opera classic.

Prepare to be swept away by the magic of the ENO’s Cinderella (La Cenerentola) opera, brought to life by Rossini’s exquisite score, brimming with lively melodies and emotional depth. Don’t miss this unforgettable cultural event in 2025 – book your tickets now for an enchanting evening at the London Coliseum.

Overview

Cinderella dreams of finding her Prince Charming. But when you’re always cleaning up after your needy stepsisters, there’s no time to make your dreams come true.

Longing for something real: a genuine connection untouched by status or appearances, and a life where she can be seen – and loved – for who she really is, Cinderella’s imagination keeps her going. Until one special encounter with Prince Don Ramiro changes everything. He’s instantly charmed by her warmth and courage – will Cinderella find her happily ever after, after all?

Read the story of Cinderella (La Cenerentola)

Staging & Score

It’s the legendary tale of Cinderella, with a few magical twists. Instead of one Fairy Godmother, Cinderella and Don Ramiro are guided by a chorus of ancestral spirits, an otherworldly team who steer the pair towards love with a sprinkling of fairy dust.

Expect surprises: there are pumpkins, mice and a glass slipper, although not where you might think. And of course, no Cinderella opera would be complete without a beautiful gown fit for a Princess.

One thing you can be certain of is the timeless score…Rossini demonstrates his ability to write bubbling, effervescent music suitable for a comedic opera that matches The Barber of Seville. With arias that reach for the heights and ensembles that fizz, Cinderella (La Cenerentola) shows him at the peak of his powers.

Singers & Creatives

Our heroine, Angelina is played by mezzo-soprano Deepa Johnny, and her Prince Charming, Don Ramiro is played by tenor Aaron Godfrey-Mayes, both making their ENO debut. Charles Rice will play the role of Dandini, Don Ramiro’s valet and Simon Bailey plays Don Magnifico, Angelina’s stepfather, supported by former Harewood Artist David Ireland as Alidoro.

This brand-new production of Cinderella is directed by International Opera Award-nominated director Julia Burbach and conducted by Yi-Chen Lin.

This production has been made possible through the generous support of a syndicate comprising Vincent Mercer & Mrs Anzo Francis and Vince & Sally O’Brien.