English National Opera has announced the company premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s contemporary opera Adriana Mater, opening at the London Coliseum on 28 November 2026.
Directed by ENO Artistic Director Annilese Miskimmon and conducted by Music Director Designate André de Ridder, the production runs for seven performances through 12 December 2026. Featuring a libretto by Amin Maalouf, the opera is presented in a newly commissioned English translation by the composer's son, Aleksi Barrière.
Set in an unidentified European state during and after a brutal civil war, the narrative centers on Yonas as he confronts his family’s violent history. In its gripping emotional core, his mother Adriana urges him to choose mercy over vengeance, breaking a cyclical pattern of male violence so their family and country can heal. Miskimmon has conceived Adriana Mater as a direct thematic sequel to Tosca, creating a compelling dual narrative focused on war, resistance, and human resilience.
On Saturday 5 December, opera enthusiasts can experience a rare, double-bill event featuring a matinee performance of Tosca followed by an evening staging of Adriana Mater. The production showcases Saariaho’s innovative score, which seamlessly weaves traditional orchestral instrumentation with immersive electronic soundscapes. Associate Conductor Aliisa Neige Barrière, daughter of the late composer, takes the podium for performances on 5 and 10 December.
German mezzo-soprano Kristina Stanek leads the cast in the title role, joined by tenor Caspar Singh as her son Yonas. Baritone Leigh Melrose stars as Tsargo, while soprano Lauren Fagan makes her company debut as Refka. The creative team features set designer Rosanna Vize, costume designer Evie Gurney, lighting designer Lee Curran, and movement director Imogen Knight.
Ticket prices begin at £25, with free tickets available for under-21s and special discounts for audiences aged 21 to 35. Sung in English with surtitles, this milestone production stands as a highlight of the ENO's 2026/27 London Coliseum season.
