The English National Opera may move to Liverpool or Manchester following the ACE’s reduced funding.

The ENO’s chief executive Stuart Murphy told the Guardian that the two cities were strong contenders and that three potential bases would be selected by the end of May and a winner chosen by the end of this year.

He also added that Bristol, Birmingham, and Nottingham were also in the running.

Murphy also added that the ENO has accepted its fate, albeit reluctantly, and is due to move into its new home early next year.

The final decision will be taken by the ENO and its board but the shortlist will be put to ACE, which is thought to favor a move to the Midlands or north of England in keeping with the government’s broader leveling-up agenda

An ACE spokesperson told The Guardian that the ENO was developing plans “based on a reimagined artistic and business model with a primary base out of London”.

The news comes as the ENO is finishing up its 2-022-23 season and recently announced its plans to present “Seven Deaths of Maria Callas.”