Samson et Dalila Tickets
Opens 27th November
Tony winner Darko Tresnjak’s staging of Saint‑Saëns’s biblical epic about love, betrayal and strength returns to the Met.
Samson et Dalila in New York
Tony winner Darko Tresnjak’s sumptuous staging of Samson et Dalila returns to the Metropolitan Opera House, in the heart of Upper Manhattan, this winter season. Camille Saint-Saëns ' dramatic biblical retelling, in which Samson’s legendary strength is put to the test by love and loyalty, features some of Opera’s most memorable tunes, including “Mon cœur s’ouvre à ta voix”. Secure your tickets today
What Is the Opera Samson et Dalila About?
As the Israelite’s struggle under Philistine oppression, Samson, the leader of the Hebrews who possesses an astonishing and superhuman strength, falls in love with the beautiful Dalila. But Dalila is a Philistine woman, and ulterior motives are lurking under her desire. Dalila and the Philistine High Priest seek to uncover the secret of Samson’s strength, and soon learn that his power lies in his flowing mane of hair. Will Dalila betray her new love, or will passion win out?
The History of Samson et Dalila
Samson et Dalila is based on the biblical story from the Book of Judges. The opera was composed by Camille Saint‑Saëns in the late 1860s, later premiering in 1877 in Weimar. Saint‑Saëns and librettist Ferdinand Lemaire originally conceived the work as an oratorio (ie a large-scale musical composition that does not contain staging elements), later expanding the piece into a full dramatic opera that explores the intertwining psychological elements of desire, devotion and betrayal. The production remains Saint-Saëns's most performed opera and blends a dramatic score with choral writing that reflects the work’s oratorio origins. Tresnjak’s staging of the production first premiered at the Met in 2018.
The Creative Team of Samson et Dalila
Samson et Dalila is composed by Camille Saint-Saens (1835–1921) with a libretto by Ferdinand Lemaire (1832–79).
Tony winner Darko Tresnjak (A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder, Amadeus) directs, with conductor Giacomo Sagripanti (Il Barbiere de Siviglia) at the podium.
Book Tickets for Samson et Dalila at the Met Opera
Drama, passion and betrayal collide in this emotionally intense biblical epic. Tony winner Darko Tresnjak directs Saint-Saëns’ masterwork, a true cornerstone of the operatic repertory. Samson et Dalila is “epic, pagan and sexy” (WQXR) - don’t miss it. Book your tickets to Samson et Dalila at the Metropolitan Opera today.
This production is sung in French, with Met titles available in English, German and Spanish.
Please note that cameras will be in operation during the December 1 and 5 performances, as part of The Met's cinema transmissions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Samson et Dalila playing in New York?
Samson et Dalila is playing at the Metropolitan Opera House, 30 Lincoln Center, New York, NY 10023.
What is the age recommendation for Samson et Dalila?
Samson et Dalila is tBC. Children under 16 must be accompanied by and sat next to an adult.
How long is Samson et Dalila?
The running time for Samson et Dalila at Metropolitan Opera House is 3 hours and 35 minutes.
Is there an intermission during Samson et Dalila?
Yes, there are two 15 minute intermissions during Samson et Dalila.
Can I buy tickets for Samson et Dalila at the box office?
Yes you can buy from the Metropolitan 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 including discounts not available at the box office.
What is the refund / cancellation policy?
Tickets for Samson et Dalila 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.
