'This is the right place to put down our roots'

ENGLISH NATIONAL OPERA REVEALS NEW LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIP WITH REGION'S VENUES AND ORGANISATIONS

- JENNA CAMPBELL

THE English National Opera (ENO) has confirmed the first wave of plans for its new 'major' partnership with Greater Manchester.

At an official launch held in the city centre, the ENO and its partners confirmed details for a UK premiere production, the creation of a youth opera company and collaboration with local football teams as part of its move to the region.

Last November, it was confirmed the English National Opera would be coming to Greater Manchester following an agreement with Arts Council England (ACE). The globally renowned company announced at the time that it had begun working with local leaders on a plan to make the city region its home by 2029, delivering performances at existing venues, whilst continuing its substantial opera season every year at the London Coliseum.

It came after bosses at the organisation campaigned against a decision by Arts Council England to slash its funding unless it moved out of London. News that the ENO would be moving to Manchester was met with fury in some quarters, but the organisation's bosses said a mooted move to Manchester was 'just not doable! Despite the shift in programming,the ENO confirmed last year that it would not have its own venue in Greater Manchester, nor would it be based at a specific site.

Instead, it will host its programme at venues including The Lowry in Salford Quays and Aviva Studios - the home of Factory International - in Manchester city centre, among others.

Heralding it as the 'beginning of a longer-term strategic partnership with venues and organisations across Greater Manchester, yesterday's announcement includes a new immersive production of Philip Glass and Robert Wilson's Einstein on the Beach, presented with Factory International and premiering in spring 2027.