Please note: tickets for this performance are only on sale on the The Royal Theatres website. We hold exclusive ticket sales rights for all our shows. Beware of fraudsters!
This performance is part of the US Government's charitable programme and 30% of ticket sales go to the AVSI Foundation. By purchasing a ticket for this show, you will make the world a better place!
In 1857, Giuseppe Verdi accepted a commission from the San Carlo Theatre in Naples. The composer had long wanted to write an opera based on Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear. But the theatre was unable to invite the singers Verdi felt could adequately convey his vision. "Il Ballo in Maschera was born as a compromise. The spectacular plot of the assassination of the Swedish king Gustav III had already been successfully tested on the public: in 1833, Daniel Auber wrote an opera to a libretto by the French playwright Eugène Scribe that was based on the story. And the cast of characters was within the standards of a typical Italian opera company.
The plot of the opera has all the qualities needed to captivate the audience: a twisting suspense that intertwines a love triangle with a political conspiracy, vivid characters, strong passions, poignant situations and impressive theatrical effects - a witchcraft scene, a love duet in a night court where executions take place, and a murder at a masked ball. As Giuseppe Verdi himself commented: 'The drama is brilliant, and entirely in the morals of our time'.
VENUE 480 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036
TICKETS From $69.00
All ticket prices include a $2.00 fee.
RUNNING TIME 1 hour, 30 minutes (including one interval)
Please arrive on time. Latecomers may only be admitted to the first break, no re-attendance is allowed.
AGE RECOMMENDATION This production contains moments and themes that might be unsuitable for children including the non-graphic depiction of a suicide, mentions of suicide and infrequent mention of death, war and slavery. Children under four cannot be admitted. All persons aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own within the auditorium.
CONTENT WARNINGS This production features instances of flashing lights and some video effects that may cause dizziness. There will be instances of total darkness. (lasting 15 seconds) The production contains moments and themes that some people may find distressing. This includes the non-graphic depiction of a suicide and mentions of suicide. There is also infrequent mention of death, war and slavery. For further information please contact the Box Office.
Please note the producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist. The schedule is subject to change and may be affected by contracts, holidays, illness or events beyond the producers’ control.
For any other questions, please visit our FAQs page. Enjoy your visit to our theatre.
