Ellen Kent Farewell Tour Torquay February & May 2026

Opera legend Ellen Kent brings her historic farewell tour to Torquay’s Princess Theatre this February, with two magnificent opera performances from 22 February 2026. After 30 years bringing world-class opera to the UK, the English Riviera joins 42 venues nationwide chosen for this final tour – a fitting tribute to Torquay’s love of the arts.

Princess Theatre welcomes Opera International Kyiv with full symphony orchestra for two unforgettable evenings on the Torbay coast. This is your last chance to experience Ellen Kent’s legendary productions in Torquay.

Ellen Kent at Princess Theatre Torquay: Show Details

The Operas Coming to Torquay

Carmen

Bizet’s blazing masterpiece of passion and fatal attraction comes to the English Riviera. Set beneath the Spanish sun in Seville, Carmen tells the story of the untameable gypsy who captivates soldier Don José, leading them both to a tragic confrontation that has held audiences spellbound for 150 years.

Carmen embodies absolute freedom – she refuses to be constrained by society, family, or love itself. Her fierce independence and raw sensuality drive Don José to abandon everything: his military career, his devoted fiancée Micaëla, his honor. But Carmen cannot be possessed. When she falls for the glamorous toreador Escamillo, Don José’s jealousy erupts in one of opera’s most powerful tragic climaxes outside the bullring walls.

Unmissable moments:

• The seductive Habanera – Carmen’s declaration that love is wild and untameable
• The Toreador Song – Escamillo’s swaggering entrance
• The fortune-telling card scene – Carmen foresees her own death
• The devastating finale as the crowd roars inside the bullring

Madama Butterfly

Puccini’s heartbreaking masterpiece is one of the most emotionally devastating experiences in all opera. The tragic story of young geisha Cio-Cio-San unfolds with inevitable tragedy – a tale of love, faith, cultural misunderstanding, and ultimate sacrifice.

In Nagasaki harbor, fifteen-year-old Butterfly renounces her family, her culture, and her religion to marry American naval officer Pinkerton. She believes their love is eternal. Pinkerton, however, views their marriage as a temporary arrangement. When he sails for America, Butterfly waits with unwavering faith for three years, raising their son alone and refusing all other suitors. When Pinkerton finally returns – with his American wife – Butterfly faces an unbearable truth and makes a final, devastating choice.

Unforgettable musical moments:

• “Un bel dì vedremo” (One Beautiful Day) – arguably opera’s most sublime aria, expressing Butterfly’s hope and faith
• The Humming Chorus – Butterfly’s all-night vigil for Pinkerton’s ship
• The joyful Flower Duet as Butterfly prepares for his return
• The shattering final scene

Ellen Kent: 30 Years of Opera Excellence

Ellen Kent transformed touring opera in Britain. Starting in the 1990s, she pioneered a vision: bring world-class opera to audiences everywhere, maintaining the highest production values while keeping tickets affordable.

Ellen Kent productions are distinguished by their refusal to compromise:

• Full symphony orchestras performing live (never recorded music)
• Opera International Kyiv – award-winning Ukrainian soloists and company
• Lavish period, authentic costumes and sets
• International principal singers
• Original language performances with accessible English surtitles
• Affordable pricing – making opera accessible to all

Her partnership with Opera International Kyiv has been especially meaningful, providing vital support for Ukrainian artists and preserving their cultural heritage through challenging times.

This 2026 farewell tour marks the end of three extraordinary decades. Torquay is honored to host these final performances on the English Riviera.

Princess Theatre Torquay: Your Venue

Princess Theatre, located on Torquay’s seafront, is one of the South West’s premier performance venues. The theatre combines Victorian charm with modern facilities, creating an intimate setting perfect for Ellen Kent’s spectacular productions.

With excellent sightlines throughout and strong acoustics, Princess Theatre has hosted legendary performances for generations, making it an ideal venue for opera.

Getting to Princess Theatre Torquay

By Train

Torquay Station: 10-minute walk or short taxi to Princess Theatre. Turn right from station onto Rathmore Road, continue to Torbay Road – Princess Theatre is on the seafront.

Torquay has direct trains from Exeter (35 minutes), connecting to services from London Paddington (2hr 45min total), Bristol, and Birmingham.

By Bus

Multiple bus routes serve Torquay seafront and Princess Theatre, including services from Paignton, Brixham, Newton Abbot, and across Torbay.

By Car

Princess Theatre is on Torquay’s seafront (Torbay Road). Parking available:

• Harbourside Car Parks: Short walk to theatre
• Town center car parks: 5-10 minutes walk
• Seafront parking: Limited evening spaces

Evening parking typically £3-6. Torquay is well-signposted from A380 and M5.

Accessibility

Princess Theatre has accessible entrances, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and hearing assistance. Contact box office on 01803 290288 to discuss specific requirements and book accessible seating.

Make a Weekend of It: Torquay & The English Riviera

Combine Ellen Kent’s farewell performances with a weekend on the English Riviera! Torquay offers beautiful coastline, award-winning restaurants, and Victorian elegance.

Pre-Theatre Dining

• The Elephant – Michelin-starred dining (advance booking essential)
• On The Rocks (seafront) – Stunning views, fresh seafood
• No.7 Fish Bistro – Excellent fish and seafood near harbour
• Harbour View Café – Casual dining with harbour views

Explore Torquay

Make a day of it: explore Torre Abbey, walk the harbourside, visit Kents Cavern, or simply enjoy the seafront promenade before the show.

Booking Your Tickets

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Ellen Kent’s final Torquay performance?

Yes. After 30 years touring the UK, the 2026 tour is Ellen Kent’s farewell. Torquay is one of only 14 locations chosen, making these performances historic final visits to the English Riviera.

I’ve never seen opera – is this for me?

Absolutely! Ellen Kent productions are perfect for first-timers. Dramatic stories, beautiful music, spectacular staging, and English surtitles make everything accessible. No experience needed!

Which opera should I see?

Both are masterpieces! Carmen is fiery and dramatic. Madama Butterfly is deeply emotional and heartbreaking. If possible, see both for the complete experience!

Are operas sung in English?

Carmen is sung in French, Madama Butterfly in Italian (as composed), with English surtitles so you can follow every word while hearing authentic performances.

How long are performances?

Carmen: approximately 2 hours 45 minutes (one interval). Madama Butterfly: approximately 3 hours (two intervals). Time for refreshments during intervals.

What should I wear?

Torquay audiences are relaxed! Smart casual is perfect. Many dress up slightly for the theatre, but comfort is most important.

Can I bring children?

Recommended ages 8+ for Carmen, 10-12+ for Madama Butterfly due to mature themes. Children must sit quietly. Under-5s not permitted.

Is there a real orchestra?

Yes! Full live symphony orchestra – one of Ellen Kent’s signatures. You’ll experience the thrill of live orchestral performance.

Can I make a weekend of it?

Torquay offers excellent accommodation from seafront hotels to cozy B&Bs. Combine opera with coastal walks, dining, and exploring the English Riviera.

More Torquay Theatre Guide

• • Torquay Theatre – What’s On

Last updated: January 2026. Second performance date to be confirmed. Check Princess Theatre Torquay for current information.