• Venue London Coliseum, London
  • Performance dates 13 February 2027 - 25 February 2027

New production Breaking the Waves makes its London and English National Opera debut at the London Coliseum in February 2027.

Emerging as one of the most powerful contemporary operas of our time, Breaking the Waves adapts the critically acclaimed film of the same name by Lars von Trier (Melancholia, Nymphomaniac).

The opera follows the deeply devout Bess McNeill, whose unwavering love is tested to its limits after her husband Jan is gravely injured in an offshore accident.

Grammy Award-nominated Lauren Snouffer makes her ENO debut as Bess McNeill. Liam James Karai will play her husband Jan.

Breaking the Waves plays at the London Coliseum from 13 February – 25 February 2027.

About Breaking the Waves 

On a remote Scottish island, within a strict religious community, Bess meets oil rig worker Jan, and they fall in love. They are happily married, until a terrible accident leaves Jan paralysed.

Bess, a deeply devout woman, believing it’s God’s will, reluctantly embarks upon a series of increasingly dangerous encounters with strangers at her husband’s request. Will her sacrifice save the man she loves? Or will she be left the tragic victim of a system indifferent to her suffering?

Performance Information

Check booking calendar for full details

Tickets by Month
Feb 2027

Stars and Creatives

Who is in the cast of Breaking the Waves?

  • Bess McNeill: Lauren Snouffer
  • Jan McNeill: Liam James Karai

Who are the creative team of Breaking the Waves?

  • Director: Tinuke Craig
  • Librettist: Royce Vavrek
  • Composer: Missy Mazzoli
  • Conductor: Joana Carneiro

Venue Information

London Coliseum , St. Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES

Nearest Tube or Train: Leicester Square (Northern line, Piccadilly line), Charing Cross (Northern line, Bakerloo line), Embankment (Northern line, Bakerloo line, District line, Circle line)

Nearest Buses: 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 53, 77a, 88, 91, 139, 159, 176

Directions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Breaking the Waves is playing at the London Coliseum in London
To buy official London Theatre tickets to Breaking the Waves, click on the Get Tickets button at the top of this page. You will be able to access the booking calendar to check live ticket availability and prices and see any exclusive offers or discounts. You will be purchasing tickets from an authorised retailer and member of the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers.
Yes, Breaking the Waves has matinee performances on the following days:

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