Powerful Modern Opera

Since its San Francisco Opera debut in 2000, Jake Heggie and Terrence McNally's simmering adaptation of Dead Man Walking has enjoyed over 300 revivals amongst the world's leading orchestras. Based on a true story, witness the 21st-century masterpiece with English National Opera this autumn, under the direction of Annilese Miskimmon and conducted by rising star conductor Kerem Hasan.

What Is The Story?

Powerhouse performer Christine Rice takes on the role of Helen Prajean, a nun of the Sisters of Saint Joseph Medaille order. When she reveals to her colleagues that she has received news from an inmate with whom she has been corresponding, they advise against further communication. The inmate, played by Michael Mayes, is one Joseph De Rocher, a convicted murderer on death row, who seeks spiritual advice as he lives out his last days. Poignant hymnal music punctuates the pair's rare relationship as they navigate the stormy waters of anger, despair, and redemption.