From fairy tale performances and unforgettable cinema screenings to mince pies, festive cocktails, and specially curated Christmas gift-shopping, the Royal Ballet and Opera has Christmas covered.

Christmas at Covent Garden

For the first time in the theatre’s history, the Royal Ballet and Opera (RBO) will reveal a magnificent tutu Christmas tree in the Linbury Theatre Foyer from Friday 22 November. Crafted from recycled tulle and borrowed Royal Ballet tutus, the tree – designed by Hugo Dalton – reflects the heritage and artistry of the Royal Ballet and Opera. Adorned with decorations of singers, musicians, artists and more, the tree is a centerpiece to a snowy theme which will take over the whole house.

On Stage

On the Main Stage, The Royal Ballet presents the glittering rags-to-riches tale Cinderella and The Royal Opera stages Antony McDonald’s story-book production of Hansel and Gretel. Paris at Christmastime sets the scene for La bohème, with Speranza Scappucci, Principal Guest Conductor Designate, leading her first Covent Garden staged production. In the Linbury Theatre, Lost Dog offers an alternative Christmas show as Ruination returns, turning the classic Greek myth of Medea on its head.

We continue our largest ever Season of accessible performances, ensuring world-class ballet and opera can be enjoyed by everyone. Anyone with access requirements can join the free RBO Access Scheme, which offers tickets to performances designed to create a better environment for neurodiverse people and others with access requirements. Performances this winter include a relaxed performance of Cinderella for the Paul Hamlyn Christmas Treat, generously supported by The Helen Hamlyn Trust. Other accessible performances include La bohème, Hansel and Gretel (including a relaxed performance) and Ruination.

Restaurants and Bars

Four new festive cocktails – The Glass Slipper, Gingerbread House, Jagged Snowball, and a Down the Rabbit Hole mocktail, will be available from the Linbury Foyer Bar and the Piazza Terrace heated rooftop bar. A selection of delectable treats including classic mince pies, delicious gingerbread men, festive themed coffees, sumptuous hot chocolates and mouthwatering cakes will be available in the RBO Café.

From Friday 29 November the rooftop Piazza Restaurant and Terrace Bar will offer a festive three-course set menu serving Christmas classics made with the best local ingredients (£65pp). The menu has festive favourites including a traditional turkey roast with pigs-in-blankets, duck fat roast potatoes, roast vegetables, gravy and chestnut stuffing, and a mouthwatering wild mushroom tart with an artichoke, spinach and goats cheese salad. Decadent desserts include cherry and amaretto Christmas pudding, and a dark chocolate and pecan nut tart with mulled wine poached pears.

Tours and events

The Making of Cinderella Tours (from ages 12+)
20 November 2024 – 31 January 2025, from £40
Giving audiences a chance to peak behind the curtain and delve deeper, this 75-minute tour reveals what it is that makes Cinderella so magical – from the enchanted pumpkin carriage to Cinderella’s glittering pointe shoes. Following the tour, guests will be treated to a gift from the RBO Shop and refreshments in a reserved area of the rooftop Piazza Terrace.

The Cinderella Adventure Tour (children aged 5-11 + accompanying adult)
9 December 2024 – 12 January 2025, £20
A specially designed interactive family-friendly journey, exploring the magical world of Cinderella. Led by an expert guide and character artist, these tours will run from 9 December 2024 through to 12 January 2025.

Christmas Cracker Family Sunday
15 December 2024, £10 for adults, £8 for children
Featuring sing-alongs, dance workshops, performances by artists including former Royal Ballet Principal Dancer, Zenaida Yanowsky, Opera North singers, and even a Cinderella Ball in the Paul Hamlyn Hall, this event is sure to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

Gift giving

From a wide range of gifts to cards and festive decorations, the RBO Shop is the destination for unique Christmas gifts. From clothing, stationery and homewares to jewellery, children’s books and toys, the RBO Shop specialises in exclusive, beautifully made products. Gift wrapping, UK and international delivery and store collection are all available. Shop in-store and online at rbo.org.uk/shop.

Royal Ballet and Opera on Stream and in Cinemas

Finally, celebrating the holidays doesn’t always mean a trip to Covent Garden. Instead, enjoy festive favourites like The Nutcracker and Cinderella at home with Royal Ballet and Opera Stream, or on the big screen at a local movie theatre with Royal Ballet and Opera in Cinemas.

With a range of productions to choose from, Royal Ballet and Opera Stream and Royal Ballet and Opera in Cinema bring world-class ballet and opera to your doorstep.

Find out more about Christmas with the Royal Ballet and Opera on the RBO website.