The production, directed by Annilese Miskimmon and conducted by André de Ridder, will run at the London Coliseum from the 28th November until the 12th December.
Rehearsal images have now been released for the English National Opera’s new production of of Kaija Saariaho’s Adriana Mater which begins performances in London later this month.
With a libretto by Lebanese-French journalist and war correspondent, Amin Maalouf, ENO presents this production with a newly commissioned English translation by the composer’s son, writer-director Aleksi Barrière. Powerful and rarely staged, this ENO premiere marks the first collaboration between Artistic Director Annilese Miskimmon and Music Director Designate André de Ridder.
Set in an unidentified European state during and after civil war, the production follows Adriana’s son Yonas as he confronts the violent legacy of his family. In its gripping climax, Adriana urges him to find strength in mercy rather than murder, arguing that only by breaking a cycle of male violence can the family, and their country, begin to heal.
André de Ridder returns to conduct the Orchestra of ENO following his critically acclaimed five-star Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny in the 2025/26 Season. He now turns his attention to Kaija Saariaho’s innovative score, which blends traditional orchestration with electronics to powerful dramatic effect. Joining him as Associate Conductor is Aliisa Neige Barrière, daughter of Kaija Saariaho, who takes the baton for the performances on 5 and 10 December.
Leading the cast is German mezzo-soprano and Royal Academy of Music graduateKristina Stanek in the title role. Renowned for her compelling stage presence, Stanek is acclaimed for performances of striking intensity and emotional truth, captivating audiences across classic and contemporary repertoire. Tenor Caspar Singh performs the role of Yonas, Adriana’s son, alongside Stanek. He returns to ENO following his acclaimed appearance in the title role of Albert Herring at both the London Coliseum and Lowry during the 2025/26 Season.
They will be joined by former Harewood Artist Leigh Melrose, baritone, as Tsargo. Melrose has carved out a formidable reputation for the performance of new works and dramatic 20th century repertoire and is a dynamic artist in both operas and concerts. Lauren Fagan, soprano, makes her company debut as Refka. She is a former Jette Parker Young Artist Programme graduate, and has since received international recognition for her performances.
The creative team behind the production is completed by: Rosanna Vize as Set Designer, Evie Gurney as Costume Designer, Lee Curran as Lighting Designer, and Imogen Knight as Movement Director.
To book tickets visit: https://www.eno.org/events/adriana-mater/