Mel Giedroyc announced as special guest star of ENO'S HMS PINAFORE

Emmie Newitt 1 October, 2025, 10:32

Directed by acclaimed comedy director Cal McCrystal, the former Great British Bake Off host and national treasure will make her ENO debut in a non-singing role this December.

mel giedroyc hms pinafore Mel Giedroyc. Photo provided by the ENO.

English National Opera (ENO)’s sparkling production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s nautical love triangle-themed opera HMS Pinafore returns to the London Coliseum this winter, which will be revived for the first time since its premiere in autumn 2021.

The production, which was nominated for an Olivier Award following its premiere in 2021 for Set and Costume Design in the Outstanding Achievement in Opera category, is known for its rollicking humour and sharp social satire.

Mel Giedroyc said: ‘I’m really excited to be making my debut with English National Opera at the London Coliseum in this hilarious production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s HMS Pinafore. Lots of innuendo and plenty of operatic sailors... What more could you ask for? It’s going to be fun!’

HMS Pinafore will be conducted by Matthew Kofi Waldren, former Mackerras Conducting Fellow, who previously conducted ENO’s Olivier Award-nominated production of Blue.

It will play at the London Coliseum for 12 performances from 4 December 2025 to 7 February 2026.

HMS Pinafore Tickets