Opera North brings Puccini classic and family-friendly shows to The Lowry this November

The Lowry Theatre’s partner company, Opera North, is set to stage three shows in Salford this November.

Late Italian composer Giacomo Puccini’s critically acclaimed La bohème will run concurrently with the Phoenix Dance Theatres’ exposition of Frideric Handel’s Susana and The Big Opera Mystery – an Opera North production aimed to acquaint children with Opera, as Salford hosts three eagerly awaited productions next month.

Billed as the perfect introduction to opera, from Wednesday 12 to Saturday 15 November, Puccini’s timeless masterpiece La bohème takes centre stage at The Lowry. The production, originally developed by Phyllida Lloyd, director of Mamma Mia!, aims to bring the musical and theatrical art form to a new audience.

Set in 1950s Paris and framed like a series of Polaroid memories, it tells a poignant story of youthful love, friendship, and heartbreak. With unforgettable music and a universally relatable narrative, it’s a must-see for both first-time opera-goers and seasoned fans.

On Friday 14 November, Opera North joins forces with Phoenix Dance Theatre to present Handel’s Susanna, a bold and contemporary reimagining of a lesser-known work. Directed by Olivia Fuchs and choreographed by Marcus Jarrell Willis, this fourth collaboration between the two companies explores themes of gender, power, and truth through a compelling fusion of opera and dance.

Featuring a gender-fluid portrayal of the character Daniel and creatively integrated British Sign Language, Susanna is a thought-provoking and inclusive performance that resonates with today’s audiences.

Also part of Opera North’s autumn season at The Lowry is The Big Opera Mystery, a fast-paced, interactive family show perfect for children aged 5-12.

Taking place at 12pm on Saturday 15 November, this musical whodunnit invites young audiences to solve a mystery alongside some of opera’s greatest characters, with live music from the Orchestra of Opera North.

Sung in English and lasting just 50 minutes, it’s an ideal first encounter with opera for budding detectives and music lovers alike.

Tickets for all three shows are available to purchase here.