Les Dennis is to star in his first opera later this year.

Les Dennis

Les Dennis

The former 'Coronation Street' actor will appear as Sir Joseph, the First Lord of the Admiralty, in 'HMS Pinafore', an English National Opera show at the London Coliseum.

The ENO production - which will be Les' opera debut - is to be directed by Cal McCrystal, best known for working on the likes of 'One Man, Two Guvnors' and the 'Paddington' movies.

Annilese Miskimmon, artistic director, said: "The overwhelming determination of all to create ambitious and brilliant opera no matter what the challenges will make this a very special season for the ENO. We have painstakingly planned this new season to give audiences a wealth of choice.

"The ENO’s belief that opera can provide an emotionally invaluable experience in good times and bad is demonstrated by our season which sees a return of old favourites and bold new productions.

"The season is one in which all can encounter the joy, the drama and the emotion of the most beautiful of art forms. The 2021/22 season offers a collection of stories from across opera’s history that are as pertinent today as ever. We have not let the past difficult year dim our ambition and I look forward to welcoming audiences both new and old back to the ENO’s home, the London Coliseum."

There will also be productions of 'The Handmaid’s Tale', 'La Boheme' and Wagner's 'The Valkyrie'.

Les portrayed Michael Rodwell in 'Corrie' from 2014 to 2016, but the character met a grisly end as he suffered a heart attack and died.

As Michael lay dying, evil serial killer Pat Phelan (Connor McIntyre) watched on rather than phone the emergency services.


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