Boris Godunov Tickets

Boris Godunov in London

One of opera’s most psychologically intense masterpieces comes to London as Richard Jones’ acclaimed production of Boris Godunov returns to the Royal Opera House, in the heart of Covent Garden. This visceral staging delves into power, guilt and the ghosts of history, drawing audiences into a world of political turmoil and spiritual unrest as a Russian Tsar confronts famine, rebellion and the spectre of his own conscience. This stark and stirring production stars opera legend Sir Bryn Terfel in the titular role - secure your tickets for this strictly limited run today!

What is the opera Boris Godunov about? 

Boris Godunov stands among opera’s most haunting explorations of leadership and conscience, tracing the moral unravelling of Russia’s ruler after he ascends the throne under a cloud of blood and suspicion. Boris Godunav, a Russian Tsar, is haunted by guilt after taking the throne under suspicion of murder; as famine and unrest spread across the country, a young pretender - claiming to be the rightful heir - gathers support to challenge Boris’s rule. The opera explores the personal torment of a ruler losing his grip on power amid political chaos and spiritual despair.

The History of Boris Godunov

Boris Godunov is based on the 1825 tragedy by Alexander Pushkin, itself inspired by historical accounts of the real Tsar who reigned during Russia’s Time of Troubles. Mussorgsky’s music broke with Italianate tradition in favour of bold realism and deeply expressive choral writing, establishing the opera as one of the defining works of the Russian repertoire. 
The opera exists in several versions. Mussorgsky’s original 1869 edition was rejected for lacking a major female role, leading to a revised 1874 version, with later adaptations following by Rimsky-Korsakov and Shostakovich. This Royal Opera House production uses Mussorgsky’s original version, structured as seven continuous scenes with no interval.

The Cast of Boris Godunov 

The cast of this production may vary depending on the performance date. Principal cast includes:

• Sir Bryn Terfel - Boris Godunov
• Adam Palka - Pimen
• Andrii Kymach - Andrei Shchelkalov
• Jamez McCorkle - Grigory Otrepiev
• John Daszak - Prince Shuisky

The Creative Team of Boris Godunov 

Richard Jones (Peter Grimes, Don Giovanni) directs, with conducting by Mark Wigglesworth (The Flying Dutchman, Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg).

Set design is by Miriam Buether (The 47th, The Tragedy of Macbeth), costume design is by Nicky Gillibrand (The Magic Flute, Doctor Atomic), lighting is by Mimi Jordan Sherin (Angels in America, The Crucible), and movement direction is by Ben Wright (The Turn of the Screw, Don Giovanni).

Tickets for Boris Godunov at the Royal Opera House

Don’t miss this extraordinary staging of Boris Godunov as it returns to London for a limited run. This gripping, visceral journey into guilt, power, and the human soul is perfect whether you’re an opera devotee or discovering Mussorgsky’s genius for the first time. Richard Jones' acclaimed production promises an unforgettable night of world‑class performance and dramatic intensity - book your tickets for Boris Godunov at the Royal Opera House today.