The most famous double act in the history of opera
When first presented, Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria rusticana and Ruggiero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci laid the foundations for the rise of verismo, realism in opera.
Damiano Michieletto’s keen direction combines these two opera classics in an ingenious way. The award-winning production, which teems with hidden love, jealousy and revenge, was an instant success after its premiere at the Royal Opera House in London in 2015.
Recommended for children over the age of 12.
MUSIC
Pietro Mascagni, Ruggiero Leoncavallo
CONDUCTOR
Alberto Hold-Garrido
DIRECTOR
Damiano Michieletto
SETS
Paolo Fantin
COSTUMES
Carla Teti
LIGHTING DESIGN
Alessandro Carletti
Cavalleria Rusticana
Turiddu is sorely disappointed as he returns from the army to his home village in Italy. Lola, his fiancé, has married Alfio. As revenge against her, Turiddu seduces Santuzza, but the jealous Lola soon tempts Turiddu to begin an affair with her.
Alfio hears about his wife’s unfaithfulness with Turiddu. Alfio swears vengeance and challenges Turiddu to a duel.
A group of villagers awaits in suspense for the outcome of the duel. Suddenly there’s a scream: Turiddu has been killed.
Pagliacci
A company of touring actors arrives at an Italian village, where they have come to perform a comedy about a man and his unfaithful wife.
The head of the troupe, Canio, is jealous of his wife, Nedda. She is lusted after by Tonio, one of the villagers, and her lover, Silvio.
The villagers arrive to watch the play. As Canio plays the role of Pagliaccio, he gets reality and theatre mixed up. It’s as if the performance were repeating his life. In his rage, he murders his wife and Silvio.
You can read the full synopsis and other background information in the programme booklet.
Production of Royal Opera House, London
Photos: Catherine Ashmore/Royal Opera House
Experience the dual nature of the mind
A season ticket to remember
A season ticket guarantees you a seat for all our premieres, which amount to 7 in the 2020–21 season. Two of these include more than one work, so your season ticket gives you access to a total of 10 memorable productions. You will also enjoy a dedicated seat in the auditorium and a dozen more substantial benefits.
There is a limited amount of season ticket packages on sale. There are no season ticket packages available at the moment.
Sweet and savoury treats
Choose your favourite refreshments from this season’s tasty menu. You can easily add refreshments to your shopping basket while selecting tickets in our online store.
The services of the Opera Restaurant are available before performances and during the interval. Order beforehand and avoid the queues.
Please note that we cannot guarantee a specific table for orders made via the online store. We may also seat several parties at the same table. You may be assigned a bar height table for enjoying refreshments standing up.
Special offer at Radisson Blu
As a guest of the Finnish National Opera and Ballet you will enjoy the hospitality of Helsinki Radisson Blu Hotels at a special price.
We offer you 20% off the daily rate. Luxury accommodation includes accommodation for two at your chosen hotel in Helsinki, glasses of sparkling on arrival, relaxing Blu Dreams and a superb Super Breakfast.
Reservation code: OPERA
Seating plans
Main Stage and Almi Hall.
Customer Service
Box Office's contact information and opening hours.
Gift voucher
Give a friend or family member an evening at the opera or ballet.
Press and Media
Press bulletins, photos and tickets, interview requests and PR staff contact details.
Groups and companies
Make a splash and organise a reception at the Opera House.
With children
Performances for children and tips for families.
Regular customers
Becoming a regular customer is worth it: see the twelve benefits granted to season ticket holders.
Accessibility
Read about step-free access at the Opera House.
Getting there
The Opera House is easily accessible by car, public transport and even bicycle.
Programme booklets
Find out more about the performances.
Tours
Pull back the curtain and take a peek backstage on a guided tour.
Tickets & discounts
Read more about exchanging your ticket, ticket types, flexible pricing, discounts and our sales and delivery terms.