Breaking the Waves - English National Opera

Breaking the Waves - English National Opera

London Coliseum

  • Opens: Saturday, 13 February 2027 -
    Booking until: Thursday, 25 February 2027
  • Running time: 2hr 35min. Incl. 1 Interval.
Breaking the Waves - English National Opera description

On a remote Scottish island, within a strict religious community, Bess meets oil rig worker Jan, and they fall in love. They are happily married, until a terrible accident leaves Jan paralysed and no longer able to have a sexual relationship with his wife.

He asks Bess to have sex with other men and describe her experiences to him; convincing her that this will help him to heal. Bess, a deeply devout woman, believing it’s God’s will, reluctantly embarks upon a series of increasingly dangerous encounters with strangers.

Will her sacrifice save the man she loves? Or will she be left the tragic victim of a system indifferent to her suffering? Find out what depths humanity is willing to go to in this ultimate test of faith.

BSL:

  • Tuesday, 23rd February, 7pm
Playing at London Coliseum

St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES GB (venue info)

London Coliseum Directions

Age restrictions

Ages 18+.

Important information

Sung in English, with surtitles projected above the stage.

This opera contains depictions of sex and violence including domestic & sexual violence, violence in a religious context, mutilation and attempted suicide.