Gloriana – A tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

English National Opera has announced a special concert of Benjamin Britten's Gloriana to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II. The performance will only take place for one night on Thursday 8th December 2022 at the London Coliseum.

What is Gloriana?

Originally composed to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953, Gloriana depicts a monarch at her strongest, yet perhaps most human. The three-act opera concerns her Tudor namesake, Elizabeth I. Set during the later years of her reign, Gloriana focuses on her relationship with favoured courtier Robert Devereux, the Earl of Essex. Though the pair are friends and even confidantes at first, they find their relationship tested by unfortunate circumstances, plots, and an attempted coup.

Gloriana cast and creative team

ENO Music Director Martyn Brabbins conducts the concert performance of Gloriana, featuring the award-winning ENO Chorus and Orchestra.

The concert stars Christine Rice as Elizabeth I, Robert Murray as Robert Devereaux, Paula Murrihy as Frances, Countess of Essex, Sophie Bevan MBE as Lady Penelope Rich, Duncan Rock as Charles Blount, David Soar as Sir Walter Raleigh, Charles Rice as Sir Robert Cecil, and Alex Otterburn as Henry Cuffe.

Former ENO Harewood Artist Claire Barnett-Jones joins as a Housewife, alongside current Harewood artists Alexandra Oomens and Innocent Masuku as a Housewife and the Spirit of the Masque, respectively.

Gloriana tickets are on sale now

As part of ENO's 2022/23 season, Gloriana, one of Britten's most lavish operas, comes to the London Coliseum for one night only. The concert marks the first time ENO has performed the piece since 1984. So don't delay! Book your Gloriana opera tickets today.