Grand Opera House
Grand Opera House
4.5
About
The Grand Opera House in Belfast is Northern Ireland's premier theatre, presenting a range of drama, dance, opera, comedy, musicals, pantomime, family and West End shows. Established in 1895, the theatre boasts the majestic Victorian main auditorium designed by renowned architect Frank Matcham.
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Golden Mile
How to get there
- Botanic • 10 min walk
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See what travellers are saying
- Lisa O6 contributionsA historic tour with a difference.My husband and I booked a tour of the Grand Opera House. Our guide was Anna-Marie who was very knowledgeable and entertaining, she obviously loves her job and the building. The tour was very interesting and informative - it finished on the stage which gave us a new perspective of the theatre. We would highly recommend this tour.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten 25 November 2023
- Paul M4 contributionsWow wow wowWow wow wow, what a building, what a place, last visit here was 11 years ago and it is as unbelievable as ever. Great building, great staff. Toilets and food and drink selection was slightly dissapointing but overall another great experience in the heart of Belfast CityVisited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 11 February 2024
- Alison PBallymena, United Kingdom32 contributionsFirst Class ExperieceWent to see The Mousetrap. Fantastic building, very helpful staff and top class show! Actors were first class. Building is clean and tidy with lots of history. Can’t wait to go back.Visited March 2024Travelled with familyWritten 2 March 2024
- jonnyd73Belfast, United Kingdom99 contributionsThe MousetrapFirst time back at the GOH since the renovations. Still as charming as ever. Came to see the Mousetrap. Brilliant show. Had a drink in the new lobby area . Really enjoyed the whole experience and looking forward to returning. A real gem.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 3 March 2024
- stephenstokes2012Newry, United Kingdom10 contributionsTheatre ToursI went on one of the theatre tours. It was fantastic. Our tour guide Anne-Marie was so passionate about the opera house and her wealth of knowledge about its history was amazing. I would highly recommend this tour if you have 1 hour to spare whilst visiting Belfast.Visited June 2024Travelled soloWritten 10 June 2024
- RMBallymoney, United Kingdom15 contributionsGreat place for showsTook the wife to see pretty women. The Grand opera house is a special location, we do love going here. Usually get centre circle seating as good distance from the stage and a good view. The seats can be a bit uncomfortable if sitting long but the sound and experience is second to none. Nice bar with view of street at intermission too.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 14 June 2024
- VikinglongboatDerby, United Kingdom170 contributionsMemorable family evening during our Belfast break.We took in an evening performance of the recent 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' musical tour as we had pencilled it in during our break to Belfast. The staff throughout the venue were top notch, friendly, welcoming and helpful. The facilities in terms of bars / toilets were good. The auditorium / theatre itself is magnificent and has a very opulent feel which made us feel like we were in a special building rather than just another local theatre like the one back home. It made for a special occasion. There cannot be any more superlatives to describe the delivery and quality of the performers on the night; however, I did find one or two age inappropriate bits in the show which were not suitable at all for the age range of 5+ as advertised, which was disappointing and unacceptable. Our family enjoyed the show very much though and my partner would have enjoyed it even more so if it weren't for the lady next to her seemingly spending the entirety of the performance consuming a junk-food four course meal including crisps, ice cream and whatnot. Gluttony at it's finest. We were slightly surprised that many of the audience did not seem to make much of an effort dress wise on the night and although this place is not the 'West End', it is a place a little more deserving of turning up for a performance in general casual clothing. Overall we had a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable evening, although the tickets at nearly £60 each we felt was a little excessive but it was a delight to witness such a quality performance in those surroundings.Visited July 2024Travelled with familyWritten 6 August 2024
- traveller100Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom154 contributionsHairsprayI went to see Hairspray the musical 26.8.24 What a beautiful theatre Security guards were rude, all I asked was is this the way in and he replied open your bag. Rude Drinks are pricy Theatre itself is stunning Seats are comfy Show was 5/5Visited August 2024Travelled soloWritten 27 August 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
1,329 reviews
Excellent
882
Very good
310
Average
78
Poor
31
Terrible
28
JJulia21
Lisburn, UK24 contributions
Oct 2022
My husband got us tickets to enjoy Joseph for our 1st Wedding anniversary. As we were quite early, we decided to get a drink. He went to the bar and brought a Coke for himself and a Rum & Coke for myself. We were sipping and looking forward to getting seated as we'd been waiting a while.
Eventually we were allowed in. When walking up the stairs, a young girl looked me up and down and said, "You're not allowed glassware in here." I was quite taken aback and I replied, "Ok, now worries, can we drop stuff off at our seats and I'll come right back out with it again?" (Note we weren't told at the bar any of this and this was our first time in 10 years going to the GOH).
She wasn't happy, stared at my drink and asked if it had alcohol in it. I said yes it was a Rum and Coke and I was happy to drink it outside but I'd like to drop my belongings off as I was carrying, coat, hand bag, snacks, etc. She again wasn't helpful and I was gradually becoming more aware this whole issue was causing a delay in 50+ getting seated behind us. I was so embarrassed, even told the girl that we'd get out of the way of the queue and again we were met with the most unhelpful stare ever.
I was so annoyed, my husband actually said about leaving to drink our drinks and get out of the employees way. When I questioned my husband he stated he was served the drinks and not told at any time about glassware or about alcohol not being permitted in the room.
I was livid to see that rows below me were quite happy to pour and drink their wine/ champagne. The girl also spent the entire show standing to our right 'keeping watch'. Really put us off entirely.
Thanks for ruining our anniversary date.
Eventually we were allowed in. When walking up the stairs, a young girl looked me up and down and said, "You're not allowed glassware in here." I was quite taken aback and I replied, "Ok, now worries, can we drop stuff off at our seats and I'll come right back out with it again?" (Note we weren't told at the bar any of this and this was our first time in 10 years going to the GOH).
She wasn't happy, stared at my drink and asked if it had alcohol in it. I said yes it was a Rum and Coke and I was happy to drink it outside but I'd like to drop my belongings off as I was carrying, coat, hand bag, snacks, etc. She again wasn't helpful and I was gradually becoming more aware this whole issue was causing a delay in 50+ getting seated behind us. I was so embarrassed, even told the girl that we'd get out of the way of the queue and again we were met with the most unhelpful stare ever.
I was so annoyed, my husband actually said about leaving to drink our drinks and get out of the employees way. When I questioned my husband he stated he was served the drinks and not told at any time about glassware or about alcohol not being permitted in the room.
I was livid to see that rows below me were quite happy to pour and drink their wine/ champagne. The girl also spent the entire show standing to our right 'keeping watch'. Really put us off entirely.
Thanks for ruining our anniversary date.
Written 24 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gabe186470
Belfast, UK165 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
We attended here last night for the wonderful play, “In The Name Of The Son”, a stunning virtuoso performance by actor Shaun Blaney.
We took our seats in the auditorium 15 minutes before curtain up but noticed how slowly a “sell-out” performance was filling up. At curtain up time of 19.30, there still had been no announcements for the audience to take their seats, the bar outside was still full and a hive of activity!
The corollary of this was that the performance started some ten minutes late. I attribute this to poor management on behalf of the Opera House staff.
I love this venue, its history and grandeur, but hugely disappointed in the staff losing control, also watching latecomers being admitted some fifteen minutes after the play had eventually got under way.
We took our seats in the auditorium 15 minutes before curtain up but noticed how slowly a “sell-out” performance was filling up. At curtain up time of 19.30, there still had been no announcements for the audience to take their seats, the bar outside was still full and a hive of activity!
The corollary of this was that the performance started some ten minutes late. I attribute this to poor management on behalf of the Opera House staff.
I love this venue, its history and grandeur, but hugely disappointed in the staff losing control, also watching latecomers being admitted some fifteen minutes after the play had eventually got under way.
Written 31 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hanz1515
84 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
Myself and my dad did the Theatre Tour of the GOH guided by the lovely Ellen. Ellen was so knowledgeable and approachable, answered all the groups questions and had a lovely way about. You could tell she really loves working at GOH.
I have lived in Northern Ireland all my life, been to pantomimes in early 90s and have always loved getting a chance to go to musicals as an adult.
This Tour was so good, getting to hear the history of such an iconic venue and getting to go on stage was brilliant.
I would highly recommend, it is only 1.5hours and is usually early morning on a Saturday but tickets get snapped up very quickly so book ahead if you are planning to come to Belfast.
Something nice but different to do even for someone who has lived here all their life.
I have lived in Northern Ireland all my life, been to pantomimes in early 90s and have always loved getting a chance to go to musicals as an adult.
This Tour was so good, getting to hear the history of such an iconic venue and getting to go on stage was brilliant.
I would highly recommend, it is only 1.5hours and is usually early morning on a Saturday but tickets get snapped up very quickly so book ahead if you are planning to come to Belfast.
Something nice but different to do even for someone who has lived here all their life.
Written 27 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John M
Bangor, UK6 contributions
Jul 2021 • Couples
Following restoration work to this iconic theatre they are now conducting tours of the facility which includes audio visual displays, timeline from 1800's to present day which includes the damage caused in the " troubles" and how it survived.
Now a listed building the decorative art work by Frank Matcham architect is fantastic.
He was responsible for several theatres including the Tower Ballroom Blackpool.
The tour also includes access to the stage and back stage and of course watch out for the ghosts.
Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and entertained us with stories of past actors, events and audiences.
Looking forward to the reopening in October.
Well worth booking a tour.
Now a listed building the decorative art work by Frank Matcham architect is fantastic.
He was responsible for several theatres including the Tower Ballroom Blackpool.
The tour also includes access to the stage and back stage and of course watch out for the ghosts.
Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and entertained us with stories of past actors, events and audiences.
Looking forward to the reopening in October.
Well worth booking a tour.
Written 8 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amy B
1 contribution
Feb 2022
I bought my mum and myself tickets to see 'Catch me if you Can' as part of her Christmas Present. We could not of been more disappointed. An absolutely dreadful show, boring, horrendously bad acting, such a let down. Patrick Duffy was the 'star' of the show and he was simply dreadful. We left after the first half. (As did plenty of other folks!) It didnt help either that my mum could not really hear anything (not that she was missing much) but she got the gist of it and it was definitely not worth the £32.50 per ticket. Shame on you Grand Opera House for rating and showing this sad, poor production.
Written 28 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alison B
22 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
I was lucky to get tickets for a tour of the Grand Opera House. Our guide told us a bit of history, pointed out symbols amongst the ornate decor (we would never have noticed these) and we ended up on the stage looking out at the 'audience'! A wonderful way to spend a few hours. Would highly recommend looking out for tickets.
Thankyou to our host Anna (apologies if I got your name wrong)
Thankyou to our host Anna (apologies if I got your name wrong)
Written 29 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
shaz
14 contributions
Apr 2022 • Friends
We did a tour of the Opera House with Tia as our guide and found it exceptionally interesting and informative. Tia was personable, easy to listen to and provided lots of interesting details regarding the architecture, history of the building and the performers throughout the years.
We enjoyed seeing the auditorium from the stage.
Overall a good experience and value for money.
We enjoyed seeing the auditorium from the stage.
Overall a good experience and value for money.
Written 8 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NA
1 contribution
Feb 2022 • Friends
I bought my mother and her two friends tickets for maggies feg run in the Grand opera house. The show was so disgusting they had to leave half way through the show. When I purchased the tickets I explained the ladies were elderly and mobility issues. Not one was I advised how crude the show would be.
It does stated that the show has string language and adult scenes. This was not just strong language or adult scenes. This was completely inappropriate and every second word was a swear word not to mention the inappropriate behaviour taking place on stage.
The grand opera house should have a better disclaimer for these kind of shows. Personally it has completely lower the tone of the opera house in our eyes.
I will be making a formal complaint regarding this matter.
It does stated that the show has string language and adult scenes. This was not just strong language or adult scenes. This was completely inappropriate and every second word was a swear word not to mention the inappropriate behaviour taking place on stage.
The grand opera house should have a better disclaimer for these kind of shows. Personally it has completely lower the tone of the opera house in our eyes.
I will be making a formal complaint regarding this matter.
Written 4 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vikinglongboat
Derby, UK170 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
We took in an evening performance of the recent 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' musical tour as we had pencilled it in during our break to Belfast.
The staff throughout the venue were top notch, friendly, welcoming and helpful.
The facilities in terms of bars / toilets were good.
The auditorium / theatre itself is magnificent and has a very opulent feel which made us feel like we were in a special building rather than just another local theatre like the one back home. It made for a special occasion.
There cannot be any more superlatives to describe the delivery and quality of the performers on the night; however, I did find one or two age inappropriate bits in the show which were not suitable at all for the age range of 5+ as advertised, which was disappointing and unacceptable.
Our family enjoyed the show very much though and my partner would have enjoyed it even more so if it weren't for the lady next to her seemingly spending the entirety of the performance consuming a junk-food four course meal including crisps, ice cream and whatnot. Gluttony at it's finest.
We were slightly surprised that many of the audience did not seem to make much of an effort dress wise on the night and although this place is not the 'West End', it is a place a little more deserving of turning up for a performance in general casual clothing.
Overall we had a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable evening, although the tickets at nearly £60 each we felt was a little excessive but it was a delight to witness such a quality performance in those surroundings.
The staff throughout the venue were top notch, friendly, welcoming and helpful.
The facilities in terms of bars / toilets were good.
The auditorium / theatre itself is magnificent and has a very opulent feel which made us feel like we were in a special building rather than just another local theatre like the one back home. It made for a special occasion.
There cannot be any more superlatives to describe the delivery and quality of the performers on the night; however, I did find one or two age inappropriate bits in the show which were not suitable at all for the age range of 5+ as advertised, which was disappointing and unacceptable.
Our family enjoyed the show very much though and my partner would have enjoyed it even more so if it weren't for the lady next to her seemingly spending the entirety of the performance consuming a junk-food four course meal including crisps, ice cream and whatnot. Gluttony at it's finest.
We were slightly surprised that many of the audience did not seem to make much of an effort dress wise on the night and although this place is not the 'West End', it is a place a little more deserving of turning up for a performance in general casual clothing.
Overall we had a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable evening, although the tickets at nearly £60 each we felt was a little excessive but it was a delight to witness such a quality performance in those surroundings.
Written 6 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kelly S
2 contributions
Apr 2022
We did the tour of the Opera House and it was really interesting and informative. Our guide Ellen really made the details come to life and was incredibly friendly and helpful. It really brought the history of the place to life - I feel like I'll always look at the Opera House in a new light now.
Written 9 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What price are the boxes in GOH
Written 16 August 2023
You need to check with the theater website for the production of your interest. Prices vary from show to show. Cheers!
Written 30 August 2023
Are the upper box seats a good view of stage
Written 6 October 2022
I imagine that it could be difficult to enjoy the performance from the Gods with vertigo. It is quite high up and although I’ve never had vertigo, I imagine that the angle of sight might be affected by vertigo.
Written 28 July 2022
Hi I am booking panto for family could anyone advise me of best seats. THANKYOU.
Written 13 November 2019
GOHMarketing
Belfast, United Kingdom
Hi Joanne, tickets before Christmas for Beauty and the Beast are limited. Best seats are now for performances in January. The show runs right through until 12 January. If you want to check specific performances, we would advise visiting our website.
Written 13 November 2019
Hi, i have been given unreserved seating tickets, can anyone advise how these work?
Written 1 November 2019
GOHMarketing
Belfast, United Kingdom
Hi there, whilst some seating in the Gods is marked as restricted view because of sightlines or handrails in view, these seats are clearly labelled as such at point of purchase. Most seats in this section offer a clear view, and although quite high up- offer value for money and a good overall view of the action on stage.
Whilst drinks are permitted in the Gods, alcohol beverages are not.
Customers should note that steps in the Gods are steep and the seating is heavily raked, due simply to the architecture of our historic building.
Written 10 April 2019
Does the front row of the grand circle have a bar to shield ur view
Written 27 September 2018
I think it would be a slightly obstructed view for a shorter person.
Written 27 September 2018
Hi, thinking of booking for the Christmas panto. Want to bring my mum and dad and was wondering where the best seats would be? I have been told the circle is good but are the restricted view seats really bad? Would it ruin the night? Also when is best to go, are the evening shows aimed more at the adults than the day time ones? Have never been before. Thanks
Written 26 July 2018
I would go to the stalls it's flat toilet are there to and the bar is there too I go go to the nite time one hope this helps enjoy it will be a good nite out
Written 27 July 2018
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