
Breaking The Waves Tickets
Opens 13th February
Missy Mazzoli’s hauntingly beautiful operatic adaptation of the acclaimed film by Lars von Trier arrives at the London Coliseum in 2027.
Breaking the Waves in London
Faith, heartbreak and loss combined with unflinching intensity are at the centre of Missy Mazzoli’s Breaking the Waves. A striking new production heads to the London Coliseum in 2027, a short walk from the National Gallery. This is your chance to experience one of the most contemporary operas of our time. Secure your tickets for this striking opera today!
What Is Breaking the Waves About?
Breaking the Waves is set in the Scottish Highlands in the early 1970s and centres on Bess McNeill and her husband, Jan. When her husband becomes paralysed in an offshore accident, the vows she made to Jan are put to the test. She is encouraged to have intimate relationships with other men and describe the experiences to him, convincing her that this will aid him.
The History of Breaking the Waves
The opera, which features a libretto by Royce Vavrek, is based on the 1996 film of the same name by Lars von Trier. It was adapted by Missy Mazzorli, one of the first two women who received a commission from the Metropolitan Opera House.
Staged in three acts, Breaking The Waves made its premiere in 2017 at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts by Opera Philadelphia. It then went on to receive its European premiere in 2019 as part of a co-production with the Edinburgh International Festival and staged in association with Bristol Old Vic. The last time it was staged was at Detroit Opera in 2024.
The production won the inaugural Best New Opera Award from the Music Critics Association of North America and was also shortlisted for the Best World Premiere Prize at the International Opera Awards.
Breaking the Waves Cast and Creative Team
The principal cast includes:
- Bess McNeill – Lauren Snouffer
- Jan McNeill – Liam James Karai
- Dodo McNeill – Joanne Evans
- Mrs McNeill – Emma Bell
- Dr Richardson - Elgan Llŷr Thomas
Tinuke Craig will direct the production, conducted by Joana Carneiro.
Breaking the Waves Tickets at London Coliseum
Experience every beat of drama and emotion that Breaking the Waves has to offer for audiences. Book your tickets for a visceral, unflinching contemporary opera at the London Coliseum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Breaking the Waves playing in London?
Breaking The Waves is playing at the London Coliseum, St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES.
What is the age recommendation for Breaking the Waves?
Breaking the Waves is best for age 18+.
How long is Breaking The Waves?
The running time for Breaking the Waves at London Coliseum is 2 hours and 35 minutes.
Is there an interval during Breaking The Waves?
Yes, there is a 15 minute interval about halfway through Breaking The Waves.
Can I buy tickets for Breaking The Waves at the box office?
Yes you can buy from the London Coliseum box office where you will pay the face value ticket price, sometimes with a small booking fee. Search on SeatPlan to get the best prices and deals in one search including discounts not available at the box office.
What is the refund / cancellation policy?
Tickets for Breaking the Waves are generally non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
SeatPlan works with multiple suppliers to find the best deal for you. Each supplier has their own refund and cancellation policy, which you can review on the payment page before you complete your purchase.