Saved events

Royal Opera House Live: Mayerling (#)

Steven McRae as Crown Prince Rudolf in Kenneth MacMillans production of Mayerling for The Royal Ballet (c) ROH 2017. Photograph by Alice Pennefather.

Dangerous desires, family secrets and political intrigues twist through every moment of faring choreography in Kenneth MacMillan's ballet inspired by true events.

Mayerling is a classic of the Royal Ballet repertory, with its emotional depth, haunting imagery, and one of the most demanding roles ever created for a male dancer. Kenneth MacMillan choreographed a complex work around the psychologically tormented heir to the Habsburg Empire, Crown Prince Rudolf. From the ballet’s start, the glamour of the Austro-Hungarian court is contrasted with undercurrents of sexual and political intrigue that drive the story to its violent climax in a double suicide.

The large cast allows for impressive ensembles in addition to the ballet's many solos of distinctive character and pas de deux of disturbing eroticism. This ballet, bursting with intensity, madness and passion, proves that sometimes the truth is more scandalous than fiction.

Approximate running time: 3 hours 15 minutes, including two intervals

Discover

Photo of Barbican Cinema red seats

Podcast: Cinema

Subscribe to our fortnightly podcast for interviews and discussion about our film programme, from the iconic to the independent, art-house to the award-winning - plus our incredible archive of ScreenTalks.

Available on iTunes, Spotify and Acast

Barbican Cinema 2

Location
Barbican Cinema 2 & 3 are located on Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican’s Silk Street entrance. From Silk Street, you’ll see a zebra crossing that will take you across the road to the venue. 

Address
Beech Street
London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.