Who are the people who make the opera happen? Hidden away in workshops and studios deep beneath the stage and atmospheric studios all over London are an army of people working towards each show. ENO employs around 400 people fulltime and many more for particular production roles, such as dressers, dancers, stage hands, musicians or extra chorus for a specific show.
Stage
The London Coliseum is the capital's biggest stage. Most of the work on it is still done by hand, with sets, props and lights placed and adjusted manually. Take a look at the impressive stage plans, watch a changeover and meet the Production Manager.
Make up & wigs
Of course all our singers are very attractive, but sometimes they need a little help to get into character...wigs and make-up are on hand to transform singers into dashing heroes, tragic heroines, kings, queens, and a whole host of other baddies and mythical monsters.
Wardrobe
Take a look at the original costume designs for ENO's recent production of La bohème and explore the production wardrobe where everything is made.
Flys
High up above the stage live the 'flymen'. Although some systems are now automated, Flymen still use ropes and pulleys to lift scenery in and out from the stage, as well as flying singers, making snow fall, lowering leaves, blossom, or the curtain itself.
Set
Updated from the 19th Century to the difficult post-war years, the set for ENO's recent production of La bohème reflects the faded grandeur of our artists' dwellings. Take a look at the set plans and explore the model box.
Lighting
Let there be light... There are over 160 lights in the auditorium alone, and you need a head for heights for rigging!
