Opera
The Yeomen of the Guard
Gilbert and Sullivan's operetta comes to the London Coliseum
The London Coliseum is one of the largest and most iconic theatres in the West End, celebrated for its grand architecture and world-class opera, ballet, and musical productions. As the home of the English National Opera (ENO), the Coliseum delivers a rich programme of artistic excellence in an awe-inspiring setting. With its striking façade and magnificent auditorium, it stands as a beacon of London’s cultural life.
From classic operas to dance to cutting-edge musicals like The Great Gatsby, the London Coliseum offers unforgettable experiences in a venue steeped in theatrical tradition.
Opened in 1904, the London Coliseum was designed by legendary theatre architect Frank Matcham with the goal of being “the people’s palace of entertainment.” It was one of the most technically advanced theatres of its time, boasting a revolving stage and a lavishly decorated auditorium.
Originally intended for music hall and variety performances, the Coliseum transitioned into a major venue for film screenings and wartime entertainment before becoming the permanent home of the English National Opera in 1968. Over the years, it has also hosted ballet, plays, and large-scale musicals including Chess, Bat Out of Hell, and Hairspray.
The theatre’s striking Baroque façade, topped with a distinctive revolving globe, and its lavish Edwardian interior make it a landmark in London’s theatrical landscape.
The London Coliseum is located on St. Martin’s Lane in the heart of the West End, just moments from Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, and Leicester Square. Its central location makes it ideal for pre-theatre dining, sightseeing, and enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife.
The nearest tube station is Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines), only a 2-minute walk from the theatre. Charing Cross and Covent Garden stations are also within easy walking distance.
Charing Cross railway station is around a 5-minute walk away, providing National Rail services and access to the Northern and Bakerloo Underground lines.
Numerous bus routes serve the surrounding area:
Day routes: 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 24, 29, 87, 91, 139, 159, 176 Night buses: N5, N9, N11, N15, N20, N29, N41, N91, N97, N113
Nearest stops: St. Martin’s Place / Trafalgar Square and Charing Cross Road / Leicester Square
The Coliseum boasts one of the largest theatre auditoriums in London, with a capacity of over 2,300 seats spread across four levels: Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle, and Balcony. The Stalls and Dress Circle offer exceptional sightlines and acoustics, ideal for opera and musicals.
Despite its size, the venue is designed for acoustic clarity, ensuring rich sound and immersive performances no matter where you sit.
The theatre provides step-free access to the Stalls level via a side entrance on St. Martin’s Lane. It features wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, induction loops, and assistance for patrons with visual or hearing impairments. Trained access hosts are available to support all guests.
The London Coliseum maintains high safety standards, including security bag checks, enhanced cleaning, and well-marked emergency procedures. Hand sanitiser stations are located throughout the venue, and staff are trained in first aid and crowd safety.
There is no formal dress code at the Coliseum. Guests often opt for smart-casual attire, especially for opera and gala nights, but casual clothing is also welcomed. Whether in jeans or evening wear, all are encouraged to dress comfortably and enjoy the performance.
The Great Gatsby Musical is the current production at London Coliseum. The latest booking period for The Great Gatsby Musical at London Coliseum started 18/10/2019 19:30:00 and runs until 07/09/2025 15:00:00. Tickets for The Great Gatsby Musical start at £20 and are available to book now.
The Little Prince is the current production at London Coliseum.
Nutcracker - London Coliseum is the upcoming production at London Coliseum. The latest booking period for Nutcracker - London Coliseum at London Coliseum started 02/01/2018 19:30:00 and runs until 11/01/2026 13:30:00. Tickets for Nutcracker - London Coliseum start at £22 and are available to book now.
English National Ballet: Akram Khan’s Giselle is the upcoming production at London Coliseum. The latest booking period for English National Ballet: Akram Khan’s Giselle at London Coliseum started 18/09/2019 19:30:00 and runs until 18/01/2026 13:30:00. Tickets for English National Ballet: Akram Khan’s Giselle start at £22 and are available to book now.
The Great Gatsby + Exclusive Photo Opportunity is the current production at London Coliseum. The upcoming booking period for The Great Gatsby + Exclusive Photo Opportunity at London Coliseum starts 16/07/2025 19:30:00 and runs until 16/07/2025 19:30:00. Tickets for The Great Gatsby + Exclusive Photo Opportunity start at £75 and are available to book now.
Public transportation is recommended. The nearest underground station to The London Coliseum is Leicester Square Station (Northern/Piccadilly Lines). Charing Cross Station (Bakerloo/ Northern Lines) is also quite close the London Coliseum. If arriving by train the nearest railway station is Charing Cross. The theatre is serviced by bus lines 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 87, 91, 139, and from St. Martin’s Place (Stop K) and Bedford Street (Stop J). The nearest car park to The Duke of York’s Theatre is the NCP car park at London St Martins Lane Hotel.
The London Coliseum can seat 2,359 people. The seats are set across four levels; Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle and Balcony.
No, there is no formal dress code for the Coliseum in London. Guests are welcome to wear whatever they feel comfortable in, whether it’s jeans and trainers or more formal attire like a tuxedo or an evening dress.
No, there is no formal dress code for the London Coliseum. Guests are welcome to wear whatever they feel comfortable in, whether it’s jeans and trainers or more formal attire like a tuxedo or an evening dress.
The Balcony is three levels up from the stage, so it may not be the best area if you are afraid of heights. However, the Balcony offers a clear view of the stage due to its good rake.
Musical
Book tickets for The Great Gatsby Musical, London Coliseum now!
Musical
The unforgettable story is now the unforgettable live show
Dance
The cracking Christmas ballet offers the ultimate festive experience for the whole family.
Dance
Don't miss 'a masterpiece of 21st century dance!"
Musical
The Great Gatsby with VIP onstage photo with a cast member
Opera
Gilbert and Sullivan's operetta comes to the London Coliseum
Opera
The world premiere of Iain Bell’s Jack the Ripper: The Women of Whitechapel comes to ENO
Opera
Terry Gilliam returns to ENO to bring his unique theatrical vision to Berlioz’s vibrant opera
Dance
Dance
Peter Schaufuss presents the UK Premiere of his acclaimed ballet
Opera
Deborah Warner’s production of Britten’s final opera celebrates the composer’s centenary year
Dance
Opera
Dance
Dance
Opera
Peter Sellars directs an exciting new production of Purcell’s final opera
Dance
Dance
Opera
Dvořák's Czech opera Rusalka based on fairy tales by Božena Němcová and Karel Jaromír Erben heads to the Coliseum in a rare London staging.
Opera
An action-packed drama of passion, war, honour and vengeance
Opera
When passion and politics collide, love can prove a fatal weakness...
Opera
Gorecki's haunting symphony comes to London for a limited run
Opera
Verdi's highly refined and artistic opera Luisa Miller has come to London's Coliseum
Opera
Bellini's passionate masterpiece with a devastating love triangle at its heart.
Dance
Dance
Enchanting ballet treats for the festive season. Unwrap your Nutcracker Delights today!
Opera
Orpheus in the Underworld is set to open at the ENO London Coliseum this autumn!
Opera
"To be seen by him is to be seduced. But time is running out for Giovanni..."
Dance
Dance
Opera
Phelim McDermott returns to ENO to direct the UK premiere of Philip Glass’s story of the final years of Walt Disney’s life
Opera
ENO brings one of the greatest choral works of the twentieth century to London's West End.
Opera
Dance
Opera
Wagner's epic opera presented by the ENO
Dance
A new version by Tamara Rojo, after Marius Petipa.
Opera
The HMS Pinafore sails into the London Coliseum this winter
Opera
Two friends love the same mysterious woman. Will turmoil follow in her wake?
Opera
Britten's masterpiece lives on in this tale of isolation, persecution and societal power.
Dance
Opera
When a figure from her dark past returns, will her new life with Porgy be enough to save Bess from herself?
Dance
Opera
Opera
New production of Berg's masterpiece, directed by Carrie Cracknell
Dance
Dance
Opera
Wagner's epic opera The Valkyrie by the ENO
Dance
Opera
Johann Strauss's classic operetta in a new production from Christoper Alden
Dance
The famed Swan Lake, performed by St. Petersburg Ballet, will certainly be a ballet event of the season.
Musical
A host of stars and the BBC Concert Orchestra celebrate the extraordinary songwriter Stephen Schwartz.
Opera
Dance
Dance
Dance
Opera
A new production of Tchaikovsky's powerfully dark masterpiece
Dance
Modanse starring Svetlana Zakharova at the London Coliseum this December
Opera
Orpheus & Eurydice is set to run at the London Coliseum this autumn as part of a special Orpheus-themed ENO season!
Dance
Opera
One woman, four suitors? Love's complicated enough when it's a game for two...
Opera
the ENO presents Così Fan Tutte at the London Coliseum
Opera
The ENO presents The Cunning Little Vixen at the London Coliseum
Opera
A bored merchant’s wife seeks solace and excitement in an extra-marital affair, with tragic consequences
Opera
Opera
Calixto Bieito's new production of Beethoven's only opera
Opera
The classic opera Iolanthe comes to London. Can the Fairy Queen call Parliament to order?
Opera
Opera
‘A peerless take on Wagner’s great comedy’ Daily Telegraph
Opera
This cult classic opera comes to the London Coliseum for a limited run
Dance
Opera
Caught in a power play that could break a marriage and steal a throne, can Rodelinda stay true to love?
Opera
Dance
Opera
Phillip Glass opera Orphée heads to the London Coliseum this November.
Opera
"Beautiful. Damaged. Seductive. Lethal. Lulu's whoever you want her to be..."
Dance
Dance
Musical
With music by Richard Cocciante and lyrics by Luc Plamondon.
Dance
Opera
Resistance. Rebellion. Redemption. A dystopian world where hope prevails against all odds
Opera
Calixto Bieito’s acclaimed production of Carmen, a must-see opera, returns to the ENO.
Opera
Jenufa
Opera
Jonathan Miller’s classic production of The Barber of Seville is a feast of frivolous fun.
Opera
Unlock the secrets of Duke Bluebeard's Castle in this haunting journey into darkness...
Opera
Simon McBurney’s five-star production of Mozart classic The Magic Flute returns to ENO.
Opera
The Merry Widow is Franz Lehár‘s comic masterpiece, played out in a stream of memorable melodies.
Musical
My Fair Lady returns to London's West End!
Musical
Starring Emma Thompson and Bryn Terfel
Musical
We Will Rock You the musical by Queen and Ben Elton returns to London!
Musical
You just can't stop the beat! Hairspray is still coming to London's West End in 2021.
Opera
Magical comedy and spellbinding adventure – ENO’s five-star production returns
Opera
Satyagraha comes to the London Coliseum this autumn
Opera
Giacomo Puccini's world-famous opera Madam Butterfly is set to make its way to London's Coliseum in 2020!
Opera
Has Rigoletto taken his jesting too far?
Dance
English National Ballet performs this swashbuckling classic for a limited engagement at the Coliseum.
Opera
Wit, charm and catchy tunes in Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera The Mikado
Opera
The ENO season presents one of the greatest operatic love stories of all time, La traviata
Dance
See the famed State Ballet of Georgia's production of a timeless ballet classic this summer.
Opera
Scandal, drama and betrayal ensue in Mozart’s timeless opera.
Opera
A captivating story of young love set amidst the rooftops of Paris.
Opera
Set sail for some swash-buckling, plank-walking, toe-tapping fun.
Opera
Phelim McDermott's Olivier Award-winning production of Glass's Akhnaten returns to the ENO
Dance
Ardani 25 Dance Gala features an all-star line-up which includes Natalia Osipova, Edward Watson, Ivan Vasiliev and Marcelo Gomes
Opera
Dance
Opera
Dance
Dance
One of the top ballet events of this year, Up & Down brings Francis Scott Fitzgerald's prose on stage - with unmissable charm
Dance
Giselle, the haunting tale of innocence and betrayal, returns to the London Coliseum
Dance
Opera
Come and help support a good cause - 40th Anniversary of Jonathan Miller at the ENO!
Musical
Superstars Katherine Jenkins and Alfie Boe lead the cast of the brand new West End production of ENO's Carousel!
Dance
Prima ballerina of the Bolshoi Theatre of Russia and étoile of La Scala, Svetlana Zakharova brings her new project Amore to the West End
Opera
When jealousy tears a family apart, can love redeem all? Perhaps, when winter turns to spring.
Dance
'Ballets Russes… the most sensual, daring and fashionable dance company in the world…' -- The Daily Telegraph
Dance
Hope turns to despair, love to betrayal and infatuation to tragedy in English National Ballet’s new double bill.
Dance
ENO presents a magical double bill Song of the Earth/La Sylphide, performed for the first time in the UK.
Dance
Ivan Putrov’s celebration of the male dancer returns for one night only.
Opera
The peers are getting restless and the fairies are in a frenzy. Can the Fairy Queen call Parliament to order?
Opera
Confused couples, lopsided loyalties and a terrible case of mistaken identity. Falling in love can make you lose your head.
Opera
Daughter. Liar. Wife. Thief. She has been running for so long, no one knows the real Marnie, least of all herself.
Concert
“Roy Budd’s Phantom Of The Opera score is a masterpiece of film scoring.” John Mansell
Concert
x
Dance
Kenneth MacMillan’s fairy tale classic The Sleeping Beauty presented by the English National Ballet
Opera
Love. Honour. Obey. Lucia di Lammermoor returns to the ENO after 8 years.
Musical
Tommy Steele returns to the London Stage
Musical
On Your Feet! congas its way to London's West End for a fun-filled summer of Gloria Estefan's greatest hits!
Dance
Kenneth MacMillan’s full-blooded ballet of love, decadence and passion.
Musical
Michael Linnit and Michael Grade in collaboration with English National Opera presents Kelsey Grammer in Man of La Mancha
Concert
Broadway superstar Tony Vincent pays tribute to the late pop idol David Bowie live on the London Coliseum stage
Dance
A Gala Night performance presented by Ivan Putrov
Opera
Harrison Birtwistle's The Mask of Orpheus opera returns to London's West End after over 30 years.
Opera
Your favourite Christmas film comes to life in this new family friendly opera!
Dance
The Abay Kazakh State Opera and Ballet Theatre present Scheherazade and Chopiniana.
Concert
The best of the 80s and the BBC Concert Orchestra come together
Play
Four popular comedians take to the stage at London's Coliseum for a one-off late-night comic spectacular!
Dance
A thrilling triple bill featuring a groundbreaking collaboration between McGregor and Mugler.
Dance
Help the ENB celebrate 70 years!
Dance
World class dancers from the best companies in a yearly one-night-only gala performance!
Musical
An epic and timeless story from the creators of Les Miserables and Miss Saigon.
Concert
For the first time in West End herstory, drag is taking over the London Coliseum for one night only!
Opera
OperaUpClose and ENO present Peace at Last at the London Coliseum.
Dance
World renowned dancer Oti Mabuse brings her new show I Am Here to the London Coliseum for one night only!
Opera
Mozart's Requiem at the London Coliseum
Dance
One of the World's most impressive dance events.
Musical
Rumi: The Musical at the London Coliseum
Opera
ENO to stage special concert of Benjamin Britten’s Gloriana for the Platinum Jubilee.
Opera
The UK premiere of this award-winning contemporary opera.
Musical
Discover the captivating culture of Mongolia with the immersive experience The Mongol Khan
Musical
Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away is getting its European premiere at the London Coliseum
Opera
Captivating audience’s hearts, The Elixir of Love returns in this new adaptation.
Opera
Don't miss this enchanting journey through love, betrayal, and political intrigue.
Dance
A captivating journey through time
Concert
The heart-wrenching opera makes its debut at the London Coliseum.
Opera
Nothing is quite as it seems in this haunting opera.
Concert
A unique, dazzling and deeply immersive one-night-only multi-media event.