From 19-27 September, cars can head for the north London venue for a shortened version of Puccini's La Bohème, the Paris-based story of a tragic love affair.
Up to four people from the same household or social bubble will be able to arrive and leave in the same car, and see and hear a specially, socially distanced but staged version of the opera. Bluetooth will relay the sound for the best enjoyment of the music. The cost is likely to be around £100 per vehicle – £25 per head for a carload.
There are plans to arrange for refreshments to be taken to vehicles. The whole show lasts only 90 minutes, to minimise those awkward loo needs. ENO is also looking at providing static vehicles for those who arrive by bike or on foot, and at accommodation for motor bikes and bicycles.
Rodolfo and Mimì, seen here at the Coliseum in 2018 with Jonathan Tetelman and Natalya Romaniw in the roles, will have to have a socially distance love affair in the Drive and Live ENO La Boheme. Photo: Robert Workman
La Bohème is always popular with regular opera-goers and newcomers alike. The love affair between Mimì, a seamstress, and Rodolfo, a poet unfolds in the impoverished but fun-loving streets of Paris at the end of the 19th century. But as poverty bites and love grows, the affair curdles until a heart-breaking finale.
Perhaps ENO thinks that after months of fortitude, we are all ready for a good hearty cry.
Final details are yet to be confirmed, but the Coliseum-based company invites opera-lovers to register their interest now.
English National Opera's Drive and Live La Bohème is open to opera-lovers who click here to register
| What | English National Opera: Drive and Live |
| Where | Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London, N22 7AY | MAP |
| When |
19 Sep 20 – 27 Sep 20, performance dates and times to be confirmed |
| Price | £100 per car |
| Website | Click here for more information and booking |