Verdi’s grand opera interpretation of Schiller’s play takes in the sweep of 16th-century history, political ambition and personal emotions. King Philip II of Spain realizes that his new wife Elisabetta does not love him but instead has fallen for his libertarian son, Don Carlo. With the threatened vengeance of the spurned Princess Eboli and the conflict between the ideals of Rodrigo and the Grand Inquisitor in the battle for the King’s influence, this is a drama of power and psychology on an epic scale. This major new production uses Verdi’s Italian version of 1886, with a stunning international cast under conductor Antonio Pappano. Nicholas Hytner – known for his theatre direction with the National Theatre and for such films as The Madness of King George as well as for opera – directs, while acclaimed international stage designer Bob Crowley contributes spacious and stylized sets alongside period costumes.

Sung in Italian with English Surtitles

Learn more about London operas within the West End.