Opera and ballet have a fantastic setting on Covent Garden Piazza, and a night here is a sumptuous affair. Although the programme has modern influences, the main attractions are still the classic productions with their world-class performers. A three-year, £50-million revamp finished in October 2018, with new areas open to the non-ticketed public for the first time, including the cafe and bar.
Discounted tickets (just 49 of them) for the week ahead go on sale on Fridays at 1pm in an event called Friday Rush. Half-price standby tickets are occasionally available four hours before the performance.
If you want a peek behind the curtain, sign up for a guided tour. The popular 1¼-hour Backstage Tour (adult/child £15/11.50) takes you behind the scenes to imagine the preparation, excitement and histrionics before a performance in this inspiring venue. Photography is not allowed.
