Breaking The Waves

About Breaking The Waves

Breaking The Waves at London Coliseum is an opera set on a remote Scottish island, where Bess lives within a strict religious community. She meets oil rig worker Jan, they fall in love and marry, but their lives change after a terrible accident leaves Jan paralysed and no longer able to have a sexual relationship with his wife.

When Jan asks Bess to have sex with other men and describe her experiences to him, Bess reluctantly begins a series of increasingly dangerous encounters. The story follows her struggle with faith, love and sacrifice as she tries to make sense of what she believes is God’s will.

Key facts: Runs for 2 hours 35 minutes, including one interval. Sung in English, with subtitles projected above the stage.

Before you book

Recommended age guidance is 18+. This opera contains depictions of sex and violence, including domestic and sexual violence, violence in a religious context, mutilation and attempted suicide.

Venue

London Coliseum.

For more information on accessibility seating, please refer to the venue’s access information.