Having secured its position as one of the world’s great opera houses following a turn-of-the-century refurbishment, the Royal Opera House has been able to conduct something of a PR campaign: in a bold move to woo new audiences, the opening performance of 2008’s ‘Don Giovanni’ was made exclusive to Sun readers at knockdown rates and beamed live to a chain of cinemas, and the Ignite Festival draws punters in with a terrific range of art installations, films and performances.
Opera, of course is still the main attraction, but ballet too has become a parallel draw and the ROH is also home to The Royal Ballet. The company’s own Carlos Acosta can be seen bounding across stage, and the Royal Opera House regularly invites visiting companies such as The Bolshoi. Meanwhile the venue’s smaller spaces – Linbury Studio Theatre and Clore Studio – offer a line-up of experimental and independent dance and music works. The Royal Opera House is a Grade I-listed building, and with its beautiful modern additions it is a striking Covent Garden landmark. Book in advance for a behind-the-scenes tour.
