The Masked Ball

Giuseppe Verdi's thrilling tale of political intrigue gets a surrealist makeover in this brand-new production by Philipp Stölzl, making his Royal Opera debut. Rarely performed but no less masterful, don't miss this edge-of-your-seat drama that tells of passion, conspiracy, and murder in the court of beleaguered and lovelorn Swedish King Gustav III.

What Is The Story?

In the glittering courts of 18th-century Sweden, King Gustav III conceals a forbidden passion for Amelia, the wife of his most trusted advisor and friend. When a visit to a mysterious fortune teller unveils that Amelia shares his feelings and exposes a deadly conspiracy against him, the stage is set for a dramatic unraveling.

Un Ballo in Maschera holds a unique place in opera history. Premiering in 1859, the opera faced significant censorship challenges due to its controversial plot involving the assassination of a king. Originally set in Sweden and based on the historical murder of King Gustav III, the opera was forced to be relocated to colonial Boston and its characters' names changed to appease authorities. Despite these challenges, the opera's powerful exploration of love, betrayal, and destiny has made it a staple in the operatic canon, revered for its rich score and compelling drama.