Richard Jones’ acclaimed staging of Boris Godunov returns to The Royal Opera this January. Dark and brooding, Modest Mussorgsky’s opera is a visceral, gripping psychodrama, exposing the corrupting effects of power.
Based on the reign of Russian Tsar Boris Godunov, who ruled from 1598 to 1605, Mussorgsky’s opera follows the Tsar’s demise following the murder of the heir to the throne, Dmitry. Haunted by guilt, he loses his grip on power, while an ambitious young man spies the opportunity to steal the crown. Mussorgsky grapples with the ultimate question: what lengths will they both go in pursuit of power?
Bryn Terfel leads an outstanding cast as he reprises the title role, following his 5* run of performances as Boris Godunov at the Royal Opera House in 2019 and in this production’s debut in 2016. Adam Palka performs the role of Pimen, with Andrii Kymach as Andrei Shchelkalov, Jamez McCorkle as Grigory Otrepiev, John Daszak as Prince Shuisky, Alexander Roslavets as Varlaam and Alasdair Elliott as Missail. Mark Wigglesworth conducts the original version of Mussorgsky’s score from 1869, performed by the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House and the Royal Opera Chorus.
29 January – 18 February 2026
Richard Jones’ haunting production celebrates its 10th anniversary
Sir Bryn Terfel stars in the lead role
Conducted by Olivier Award winner Mark Wigglesworth
Tickets from £12, available at rbo.org.uk
