Antonio Pappano conducts a new production of Musorgsky’s magnificent opera Boris Godunov at the Royal Opera House, starring Bryn Terfel in the title role and directed by Richard Jones.

In the perpetual power struggle of Russian autocracy, Tsar Boris Godunov comes to power by murdering the nine-year-old Dmitry, heir to the throne.

Despite ruling well thenceforth, a series of famines, attributed by some to divine retribution, leads to rising support for his enemies, including one opportunistic monk who concocts a scheme to seize the throne.

The opera’s highly individualistic approach to drama and declamation, and the towering central role for the title character, have ensured its position as one of the great works in the repertory.

Sung in Russian with English surtitles.

Learn more about London operas within the West End.