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HMS Pinafore Tickets

London Coliseum

Closed 7th February 2026

This riotous revival of the Gilbert and Sullivan comic operetta returns in ENO’s slapstick-filled, Olivier-nominated production.

HMS Pinafore in London

All aboard HMS Pinafore at the London Coliseum! Cal McCrystal’s riotous Olivier-nominated revival returns to St Martin's Lane this winter with its signature slapstick flair to satirise class, patriotism, and naval pomp. This joyous operetta is perfect for opera Admirals and newbie Junior Officers alike, promising a night of laughter, lyrical wit and “vaudevillian gusto” (British Theatre Guide). Secure your tickets for HMS Pinafore today and set sail for satirical splendour!

What is the opera HMS Pinafore about?

Set aboard the HMS Pinafore, a Royal Navy warship, this comic opera follows the romantic entanglements of Josephine, the Captain’s daughter, who is in love with the lowly sailor Ralph Rackstraw. Despite her father's plans for her to marry the high-ranking Sir Joseph Porter, Josephine's heart leads her elsewhere. As secrets are unveiled and social standings are questioned, the opera humorously critiques class distinctions and the absurdities of the British naval hierarchy.

Premiering in 1878, HMS Pinafore was Gilbert & Sullivan’s first major success, combining catchy tunes with sharp social satire. This ENO revival, originally staged in 2021, brings a fresh energy to the classic, with McCrystal’s direction highlighting the timeless humour and relevance of the piece. This production is “a riot of slapstick and satire, delivering a high-energy, laugh-out-loud evening that reinvigorates Gilbert & Sullivan’s classic” (Opera Wire) - don’t miss out, say full speed ahead and book your tickets now!

HMS Pinafore London Cast

Main cast:

  • Sir Joseph Porter - Neal Davis
  • Captain Corcoran - John Savournin
  • Josephine - Henna Mun
  • Ralph Rackstraw - Thomas Atkins

HMS Pinafore Creatives

The creative team includes conductor Matthew Kofi Waldren (Blue, The Barber of Seville), director Cal McCrystal (Iolanthe, One Man, Two Guvnors), set and costume designer takis (The Barber of Seville, The Marriage of Figaro), lighting designer Tim Mitchell (The Pirates of Penzance, The Mikado), and choreographer Lizzi Gee (The Light in the Piazza, The King and I).

Book Tickets for HMS Pinafore at the London Coliseum Now!

All aboard for operatic delight! Don't miss this chance to experience HMS Pinafore at the London Coliseum. Love may not always be smooth sailing, but with its delightful melodies, engaging performances, and humorous take on societal norms, this production certainly is! Secure your ticketstoday and set sail on a sea of operatic fun.

Performance dates:
07 Feb 2026 - 07 Feb 2026
Running time:
2 hours and 15 minutes including an interval.
Venue:
London Coliseum
St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES
Get directions
Age recommendation:
Best for age 5+
Audience Notes:

This production is sung in English, with subtitles projected above the stage.

Categories:

HMS Pinafore London Reviews

4.5
94 Reviews
  • 5 Stars57%
  • 4 Stars32%
  • 3 Stars11%
  • 2 Stars0%
  • 1 Stars0%

User Reviews

Verified

A most enjoyable production. I really liked the choreography, especially the opening number after the interval - and of course the singing was exemplary. Great set , fun costumes, though some 'updates' were a little too farcical for my taste but my b Read more

Performance date: 05 February 2026
Verified

So funny! This was a wonderful opera with fantastic singing, acting and dancing. There were a few well-judged additions to the libretto which made modern references, but they never felt out of place. Would definitely recommend!

Performance date: 24 January 2026
Verified

Didn’t realise Mel Giedroyc was taking a part. Good comedic timing and lots of energy from all (a bit like an operatic version of The Play That Goes Wrong), plenty of laughs and some modern nods to Gangnam Style, Vogue, and YMCA, so good for a younge Read more

Performance date: 04 February 2026
1/32

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is HMS Pinafore playing in London?

HMS Pinafore is playing at the London Coliseum, St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES.

What is the age recommendation for HMS Pinafore?

HMS Pinafore is best for age 5+.

How long is HMS Pinafore?

The running time for HMS Pinafore at London Coliseum is 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Is there an interval during HMS Pinafore?

Yes, there is a 15 minute interval about halfway through HMS Pinafore.

Can I buy tickets for HMS Pinafore 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.

What is the refund / cancellation policy?

Tickets for HMS Pinafore 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.

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