ENO Announces Relocation to Manchester: New Productions and Future Plans

The English National Opera (ENO) will establish itself in Manchester by 2029 after relocating from London. This move came after the ENO faced funding cuts and pressure from the Arts Council England to leave the capital.

Starting in 2025, the ENO will present productions at the Lowry, Bridgewater Hall, and Aviva Studios. It will launch a youth opera company for ages 13 to 16 and plans a singing project with local football teams, titled Perfect Pitch, to explore the effects of mass singing on team performance and audience experience.

Upcoming productions include:

• Einstein on the Beach: Directed by Phelim McDermott, spring 2027.
• Angel’s Bone: UK premiere, May 2026 at Aviva Studios.
• Albert Herring: October 2025 at the Lowry.
• Così Fan Tutte: Staged concert version, February 2026 at Bridgewater Hall.

ENO Artistic Director Annilese Miskimmon expressed optimism for the future of opera in the UK. Chief Executive Jenny Mollica noted Greater Manchester’s creative potential and the opportunity to engage a wider audience.

The ENO’s move follows challenges, including reduced funding and internal conflicts. The Arts Council initially planned to halve ENO’s grants but later extended support and deadlines. Although there were tensions with Greater Manchester’s Mayor, a partnership appears to be developing positively.

Despite relocating, the ENO will continue to hold events at the London Coliseum. Its orchestra and chorus will perform in both cities and collaborate with local organizations like the Halle Orchestra.

Concerns remain about funding issues in the arts sector. The Musicians’ Union and arts union Equity welcomed new ENO projects but stressed the need for sustainable support and larger-scale productions.