4.48 Psychosis
The Royal Ballet and Opera
- Date night
- Great for groups
- Date
- Sun, 25 Oct 2026
- Time
- 14:00
- Venue
- Royal Opera House
- City
- London
- Tickets
- See booking site
You'll be taken to the ensemble's official site.
Summary
The Royal Ballet and Opera performs Philip Venables’ operatic adaptation of Sarah Kane’s final play at the Royal Opera House.
Why it's fantastic
Philip Venables translates the raw, uncompromising intensity of Sarah Kane’s final play into a visceral operatic landscape. It is a rare chance to hear how contemporary composition handles such profound psychological depth, offering a haunting experience that lingers long after the final notes fade in the theatre.
Our guide to this performance
What you'll hear
The evening presents a modern operatic adaptation of Sarah Kane’s final play, translated into a musical score by Philip Venables. You will hear a composition that explores the boundaries of consciousness through a mix of spoken word, percussive elements, and intricate ensemble writing. The work is structured around the fragmented thoughts and internal dialogues found in the original text, moving between moments of stark silence and dense, rhythmic intensity. Listen for the way the vocal lines interact with the live instruments to mirror the psychological states depicted on stage. The music does not follow traditional melodic paths; instead, it creates a soundscape designed to reflect the raw clarity and confusion of the human mind under pressure. Because the source material is deeply introspective, the performance focuses on a lean, contemporary aesthetic rather than grand spectacle. We find that this approach allows the specific cadence of the language to drive the pacing of the entire work.
Who's performing
The Royal Ballet and Opera performs this production at their home in London. The ensemble is known globally for maintaining a broad repertoire that spans from historical classics to challenging new commissions. They are recognised for their technical precision and their ability to bring high production values to modern scores. In this instance, the company brings its dedicated operatic forces to bear on a contemporary work that requires both vocal versatility and sharp dramatic timing. Their reputation is built on delivering performances that respect the complexity of modern composition while maintaining a clear narrative focus for the audience.
Planning your evening
This performance takes place at the Royal Opera House in London on 25 October 2026. As a contemporary opera based on a notable theatrical text, it is well-suited if you are interested in how modern literature is adapted for the lyrical stage. No specific dress code is required for the venue, though many visitors choose smart-casual attire. You should check the house programme on arrival for the exact running time. The production is sung in English, making the libretto accessible to domestic audiences without the constant need for surtitles.
Written by the Bravura editorial team from the ensemble's published programme and venue information. We don't reproduce copy from box-office sites. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
