English National Opera has released rehearsal images for its new production of Tosca, ahead of the opera’s opening at the London Coliseum on 30 October 2026.
The newly released photographs showcase rehearsals for director Annilese Miskimmon’s reimagining of Puccini’s classic, which relocates the action to a concert hall in an unnamed European state threatened by war and political instability.
The production marks Miskimmon’s latest work for ENO following her Olivier Award-winning production of Dead Man Walking, and forms part of the company’s 2026/27 season exploring themes of resistance, resilience and freedom.
Annilese Miskimmon said: “ENO’s 2026/27 Season brings together stories of resistance, resilience and the search for freedom. I am delighted to present this new production of Puccini’s Tosca alongside its sister production, Adriana Mater, and to explore both works through a contemporary lens. Tosca is one of opera’s most iconic characters, and I look forward to placing her at the centre of her own story by revealing the urgent relevance of Puccini’s opera for audiences today.”
Set against a backdrop of escalating conflict, Tosca follows opera singer Floria Tosca as she plans a secret meeting with her lover, the painter Mario Cavaradossi. When the corrupt police chief Scarpia intervenes, a world of music and art is transformed into one of fear and violence.
The production stars Grammy Award-winning soprano Axelle Fanyo in the title role, alongside tenor Chaz’men Williams-Ali as Cavaradossi. Christopher Purves and Craig Colclough share the role of Scarpia, with Alaric Green, Robert Hayward, Osian Wyn Bowen and Steffan Lloyd Owen completing the principal cast.
Conducting the Chorus and Orchestra of ENO is Ben Glassberg, returning to the company following his acclaimed work on La bohème. The creative team includes set designer Rosanna Vize, costume designer Evie Gurney, lighting designer Lee Curran, movement director Imogen Knight and translator Amanda Holden.
Tosca is presented alongside Kaija Saariaho’s Adriana Mater as part of a connected artistic vision exploring art, war and resilience. Audiences will also have the opportunity to experience both productions on the same day on 5 December 2026, with a special matinee performance of Tosca followed by an evening performance of Adriana Mater.
Tosca runs at the London Coliseum from 30 October to 11 December 2026.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
