A diverse cast performs energetically on stage, surrounded by a floral backdrop and kitchen set.

To Die For (A Comedy)
Tickets From £24.25

Venue

London Coliseum

Will an obsession with fame be the death of us?

For one night only, ENO welcomes a Nederlandse Reisopera and Phion Symphony Orchestra guest production for the UK premiere of this exceptional new comic opera following the world premiere in The Netherlands in April 2026.

This exuberant and subversive black farce, by British Russian composer Elena Langer, mocks and questions our obsession with celebrity – and encourages us to embrace the highs and lows of our turbulent, gruesome, joyful and beautiful life.

Originally commissioned by the Stanislavski Nemirovich-Danchenko Theatre in Moscow, this comic opera was cancelled after the invasion of Ukraine. The piece was deemed insufficiently patriotic.

The existential angst of Semyón Podsekayev drives him to suicide, but he hopes that playing the tuba will save him. A plan that fails miserably.

TV presenter Ivan Vane is one of several characters keen to use Semyón’s possible suicide for their own gain. In the second act, we see Vane’s reality show The Naked Truth, in which Semyón’s desire to commit suicide – and everyone’s desire to profit financially from it – becomes a public game.

Closing

30/11/2026

Running Time

2h30, inc. interval

Genre

Opera

Age & Content

15+ | Children under 5 are not allowed in the auditorium.

Please Note:

This opera contains themes of suicide, strong language and loud gun shots.

Book To Die For (A Comedy) Tickets

No accessibility performances are currently scheduled for this show.

Frequently asked questions

To Die For (A Comedy) is playing at London Coliseum in London. Your ticket selection will show available performance dates and times, and you can book securely online via Official London Theatre. For the smoothest experience, pick a performance from the calendar and book early for popular dates.
This exuberant and subversive black farce, by British Russian composer Elena Langer, mocks and questions our obsession with celebrity.
The running time for To Die For (A Comedy) is 2h30, inc. interval. Duration can occasionally vary slightly by performance, but this is the listed length for the production.
To Die For (A Comedy) is recommended for ages 15+ | Children under 5 are not allowed in the auditorium.. If you’re bringing younger theatregoers, it’s worth considering themes and attention span alongside the age guidance. Some venues also have their own admission policies, so it can help to double-check requirements before you travel.
To Die For (A Comedy) opens on 29th November 2026 and is currently scheduled to run until 30th November 2026. If you’re planning a trip or booking for a specific week, check the performance calendar for dates and availability, as popular performances can sell faster closer to the run.
Tickets for To Die For (A Comedy) go on sale from 7th May 2026. If you’re looking for the widest choice of seats and dates, booking early is usually best - especially for weekends and peak travel periods. Once on sale, you can select a performance and complete your booking online.
You can buy tickets for To Die For (A Comedy) online through Official London Theatre. Choose your preferred performance in the calendar, select seats if available, and complete your purchase securely.
There isn’t a strict dress code for London theatre, so wear whatever you’ll feel comfortable and confident in. Most people go for smart casual - think jeans or trousers with a nice top, a casual dress, or a shirt and trainers. If you’re heading to an evening show, on a date, or celebrating something, you might fancy dressing up a bit more, but it’s completely optional.
Arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time helps keep things smooth and stress-free, giving you plenty of time to collect tickets, go through security, and get settled in your seat before the performance begins.
Book Tickets from £24.25