Pray for the truth.

A shattering story of love, redemption and forgiveness like no other. 

The ENO presents Jake Heggie’s gripping opera, Dead Man Walking – a thought-provoking tale inspired by true events. This bold production unites extraordinary music with raw, emotional storytelling, delivering an unforgettable operatic experience. 

Renowned for its powerful score and heart-rending drama, Heggie’s masterpiece examines the complexities of justice and humanity with poignant intensity. Don’t miss this landmark ENO production, brought to life at the iconic London Coliseum in 2025. 

Book your tickets now to experience Dead Man Walking – an opera that will stay with you long after the curtain falls. 

Please note, age guidance for Dead Man Walking is 18+.

Overview

Joseph De Rocher faces death by lethal injection for the brutal and senseless murder of two teenagers. While Joseph refuses to accept his guilt, we follow the religious and personal struggles of Sister Helen Prejean. She offers him spiritual guidance and witnesses the unbearable pain felt by the victim’s families, who’ve been left devastated by Joseph’s horrific and unforgivable crimes.

Will Sister Helen succeed in getting the confession the families deserve? Or will Joseph maintain his innocence to the very end?

Principal Production Sponsors: George and Patti White

Discover the story of Dead Man Walking 

Staging & Score

Dead Man Walking is based on a true story from Sister Helen’s memoir and adapted into an Oscar-winning film starring Susan Sarandon and Sean Penn. The conflicting drama plays out behind the bars of a high-security United States prison.

Contrasted by a beautiful and poignant score composed by Jake Heggie, Musical America’s 2025 Composer of the Year, Dead Man Walking is the most widely performed opera of the 21st century.

Singers & Creatives

The powerful lead roles of Sister Helen and Joseph are sung by two of opera’s biggest names – Christine Rice and Michael Mayes – while making a welcome return to the ENO stage, Dame Sarah Connolly plays Joseph’s mother.

Directed by Annilese Miskimmon, ENO’s Artistic Director and conducted by Kerem Hasan, one of Britain’s most exciting young conductors.

Co-produced with Opera North and Finnish National Opera.

This production has been made possible through the generous support of a syndicate comprising: Barbara Bannister, Nicola Kerr, Harriet & Michael Maunsell, Tony & Criona Mackintosh, J.S. Murdoch, Professor Mick Peake OBE, Kate Olver & Jeremy Young, and Elizabeth Wright.