Relationship status: It’s complicated.

When it comes to Partenope’s love life, complicated doesn’t quite cover it. Settle in for George Frideric Handel’s first operatic romcom Partenope, where all isn’t fair in love and war, love triangles turn into love hexagons, and every glance risks sparking a duel.

At the heart of the story is Queen Partenope, a ruler who’s as clever in courtship as she is in battle. But when rival suitors clash, loyalties are tested, disguises are donned and misunderstandings abound, the line between love and war gets hilariously blurred.

Packed with wit, charm and Handel’s unforgettable music, Partenope delivers a delightful mix of comedy, chaos and romance. Will these characters find their happily-ever-after, or will Cupid’s aim continue to miss the mark? Prepare for a theatrical evening where drama reigns supreme and no heart is left unscathed – book your tickets to see ENO’s Partenope opera live at the London Coliseum!

Overview

Finding The One isn’t easy, especially when you’re tangled up in a tricky love quadrangle.

Join our social butterfly Partenope and her three potential suitors – Arsace, Armindo and Eurimene – in this timeless tale where boys meet girl, girl falls for boy, and another ‘boy’ is really a girl looking for revenge on a boy… keeping up?

Find out if love is on the cards and if honesty wins, in this complex game of romance, where not everything (or everyone) is as it seems.

Discover the story of Partenope.

Staging & Score

Set in a 1920s Paris salon, Christopher Alden’s production of Partenope is inspired by the surrealist artists of the time, including Salvador Dali and Man Ray, with the character of Emilio being based on Man Ray himself.

With non-stop parties, bottomless cocktails, endless card games and some questionable disguises, the scene is set for romance, complemented by Handel’s captivating score which brings each character’s emotions to life beautifully. Don’t miss this fun, classy and charming battle for Partenope’s heart.

Singers & Creatives

Our socialite Partenope is played by former ENO Harewood Artist, Nardus Williams, Winner of the Rising Talent award at the 2022 International Opera Awards. Her suitors Arsace, Emilio and Armindo are played by Hugh Cutting, Ru Charlesworth, and Jake Ingbar.

This award-winning ENO Partenope production will once again be directed by Christopher Alden. Christian Curnyn has withdrawn from conducting the run of Partenope due to ill health. William Cole will conduct the remaining performances.

This production has been made possible through the generous support of a syndicate comprising Liz Cratchley OBE, Alan Karr & Jeanne Ruane, Vincent Mercer & Mrs Anzo Francis, Kate Olver & Jeremy Young, and Leo Toralballa.