Royal Opera House Celebrates New Season and Prestigious Awards
A New Chapter for British Opera and Ballet
The Royal Opera House, now known as the Royal Ballet and Opera, continues to solidify its position as one of the world’s leading cultural institutions. As December 2025 unfolds, the iconic Covent Garden venue has much to celebrate, from prestigious international recognition to an ambitious new season that promises to captivate audiences worldwide.
Recent Accolades and Recognition
The Royal Ballet and Opera has been awarded the prestigious WOLF Award for Future Legacy at the Walpole British Luxury Awards 2025, in recognition of its exceptional commitment to nurturing, developing and preserving the talent and skills that underpin the UK’s creative industries. This honour reflects the organisation’s dedication to cultivating the next generation of artists and maintaining excellence in performance arts.
The company has also achieved international acclaim, with The Royal Opera’s critically acclaimed, sold-out production of Festen receiving the World Premiere Award at the International Opera Awards ceremony held in Athens in November 2025. This recognition underscores the venue’s commitment to innovative contemporary works alongside classical repertoire.
An Ambitious 2025/26 Season
The Royal Opera House has unveiled an exciting programme for its 2025/26 season. The Royal Opera welcomes Music Director Jakub Hrůša, and Principal Guest Conductor Speranza Scappucci, who join Royal Ballet Music Director Koen Kessels as RBO’s trio of Maestri. Opening the Season, Hrůša and Director of Opera Oliver Mears present a new production of Tosca – one of eight new productions throughout the year.
The commission includes the replacement of the Main Stage curtains, which have graced the Royal Opera House for the past 26 years and have opened and closed on more than 10,000 performances. The new curtains will honour His Majesty King Charles III, Patron of the institution, marking both a practical necessity and symbolic renewal.
Significance for British Culture
The Royal Opera House’s continued success demonstrates the enduring importance of classical performing arts in contemporary British culture. With its blend of traditional masterpieces and bold new commissions, the venue remains at the forefront of innovation whilst preserving centuries-old traditions. As the 2025/26 season progresses, audiences can expect world-class performances that cement London’s reputation as a global cultural capital.