Читать книгу The Royal Opera House Guidebook - The Royal Opera House - Страница 9

The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden is the permanent home of The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet, the Royal Opera Chorus and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. This fine building is a living centre for great operas, ballets and music, performed to world acclaim. The richness of the international repertory of established classics and exciting new works expresses the character and achievements of all those who have striven to place the Royal Opera House at the centre of the nation's cultural life.

The present theatre was built in 1858. It closed 1997–9 for radical rebuilding and is now one of the most architecturally impressive and technically advanced opera houses in the world. The majestic red, cream and gold auditorium and its immense proscenium arch framing the famous main stage, remain intact, while the much extended complex incorporates the Linbury Studio Theatre, the Clore Studio Upstairs and spacious public areas including restaurants, bars and a roof terrace. There are two full-size opera rehearsal stages, and extensive spaces for ballet rehearsals and classes.

This souvenir guide describes the Royal Opera House as a working theatre and one of London's landmark attractions. For up-to-date information about Royal Opera House activities, including performances, educational programmes, exhibitions and guided tours, visit www.roh.org.uk