I Puritani Tickets
Opens 30th June
Bellini’s bel canto masterpiece returns to the ROH for the first time in 30 years, in a bold new staging by Olivier-winner Richard Jones.
I Puritani in London
Experience operatic romance and vocal fireworks as I Puritani makes a grand return to the Royal Opera House, in the heart of Covent Garden. Directed by Richard Jones, this production marks the first time the company has performed I Puritani in over thirty years - don’t miss this rare chance to see Bellini’s emotionally charged masterpiece about the tender bonds of love, the devastation of heartbreak, and the elation of reconciliation. Secure your tickets today.
What is the opera I Puritani about?
Set during the English Civil War, I Puritani follows the doomed love between Elvira, the daughter of a Puritan governor, and Arturo, a Royalist supporter. On the eve of their wedding, political allegiances and suspicions intervene, throwing Elvira into a spiral of heartbreak and madness. As the tides of war shift, love and loyalty are tested to their limits in a powerful operatic exploration of obsession, faith, and forgiveness.
With its sweeping score, elaborate choruses, and dramatic flair, I Puritani is a towering example of bel canto opera. Bellini’s final composition is renowned for its vocal intricacy, and this new production transforms the narrative into a psychological portrait, heightening the tension and theatricality. Expect passion, betrayal, and vocal pyrotechnics in a production that brings gothic surrealism to Bellini’s haunting vision.
The History of I Puritani
Bellini’s I Puritani stands as one of the most celebrated works of the bel canto era, balancing lyrical beauty with dramatic depth. Based on Têtes Rondes et Cavaliers, a historical play about Puritans and Cavaliers during the English Civil War, the opera was first staged in 1835 at Paris’s Théâtre‑Italien and quickly became a favourite for its radiant melodies and expressive vocal writing. The score features some of Bellini’s most beloved music, including Elvira’s virtuosic arias and the intense ensemble writing in its final act. Internationally, I Puritani continues to delight audiences with its emotional range - from tender romance to heartrending despair and ultimately to triumph.
Bellini’s final work, the opera remains a testament to his mastery of long, lyrical vocal lines and dramatic pacing, securing its place among the great masterpieces of the 19th‑century Italian repertory. Despite its initial success and stunning musical passages, it has long been underperformed compared to Bellini’s more popular works, such as Norma or La sonnambula. This new Royal Opera House production marks the company’s first staging of the opera in over three decades, and offers a rare opportunity to experience its full splendour.
The Creative Team of I Puritani
I Puritani was composed by Vincenzo Bellini (Norma, La sonnambula, Il pirata), with a libretto by Carlo Pepoli,
The Royal Opera’s new staging of I Puritani is directed by Richard Jones (Boris Godunov, The Mastersingers of Nuremberg), one of the UK’s most celebrated opera directors, known for his bold, stylised interpretations. Riccardo Frizza (La sonnambula, Norma, Don Pasquale) conducts, making his Royal Opera debut.
Design is by Hyemi Shin (The Cunning Little Vixen, The Rape of Lucretia, A Little Night Music), with costumes by Nicky Gillibrand (Billy Budd, The Magic Flute, The Light Princess). Lighting is by Adam Silverman (Pelléas et Mélisande, Katya Kabanova, Jenůfa), and movement direction by Sarah Fahie (The Marriage of Figaro, Der Rosenkavalier, Carmen).
The Cast of I Puritani
Casting varies by performance date. Principal cast includes:
- Lisette Oropesa – Elvira
- Francesco Demuro – Arturo Talbo
- Ildebrando D’Arcangelo – Sir Riccardo Forth
- Andrzej Filończyk – Sir Giorgio Valton
- Marcela Rahal – Enrichetta di Francia
- Blaise Malaba – Lord Gualtiero Valton
Book Tickets for I Puritani at the Royal Opera House
Opera fans, rejoice! I Puritani promises a night of exceptional singing, rare repertoire, and theatrical flair. Richard Jones’s vision casts a stark, stylised light on the opera’s themes of madness and political extremism, in a haunting and expressionist staging. This is one of opera’s most exciting offerings of the year. Let Bellini’s romantic drama sweep you away - book tickets for I Puritani at the Royal Opera House today.
This production is sung in Italian with English surtitles displayed above the stage and around the auditorium.
This production contains depictions of knife violence and the challenges of mental health. Please note that, as this is a new production, age guidance and content warnings may be subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is I Puritani playing in London?
I Puritani is playing at the Royal Opera House, 41 Covent Garden Piazza, London, WC2E 8RF.
Can I buy tickets for I Puritani at the box office?
Yes you can buy from the Royal Opera House 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 I Puritani 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.
