Sadler's Wells 2017 - 2018 by Sadler's Wells

June 2017 January 2018

Contents 01 02 04 06 23 27 28 36 40 44 48 50 51

A message from Alistair Spalding First encounters Beyond the theatre Sadler’s Wells on tour Sadler’s Wells Theatre How to book Planning your journey Lilian Baylis Studio The Peacock Family shows Talks, classes and assisted performances You make all the difference Memberships

Priority booking dates for members

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Patrons Mon 15 May at 10am Rehearsal Members Wed 17 May at 10am Members Fri 19 May at 10am To take advantage of all member benefits, please log in to your account at sadlerswells.com before purchasing any tickets. For priority booking information, please log in to your customer profile on sadlerswells.com and tick the box to receive emails. For more information about memberships, see back pages or visit sadlerswells.com/membership Booking opens to the general public Mon 22 May at 10am

Save 20% with Sadler’s Wells membership, and get priority booking To find out more see page 51, or to join online and for full terms and conditions visit sadlerswells.com/membership Save 10% with promo code SAVE10 when you book two or more shows at the same time Just add SAVE10 in the promo code box before selecting and purchasing tickets. For more details and full terms and conditions visit sadlerswells.com/save

Transaction charges apply £3 for telephone bookings, £1.95 for concessionary and online bookings. No fee when booking in person.

Photo: Cameron Slater

A message from Alistair Spalding At Sadler’s Wells, we believe dance can mirror and shape contemporary culture. Our theatre is not just a place where dance is presented, but a producing house that makes dance happen through supporting artists and commissioning and producing work. Importantly, we do this both to develop the art form and to offer our audiences the chance to experience great dance - to learn, experiment, be enthralled and inspired. This is why I am so excited about this season. It features a host of new and returning shows by our associate artists and companies, which we have produced or co-produced. They include new work by our Associate Artists Wayne McGregor, Hofesh Shechter and BalletBoyz; the return of Jasmin Vardimon’s Pinocchio and Michael Keegan-Dolan’s Swan Lake/Loch na hEala; and the much-anticipated UK premiere of our International Associate Company Acosta Danza. Members and Patrons will also have been contacted about the return of Akram Khan’s Giselle, performed by our Associate Company English National Ballet. Akram is also curating the dance programme of the Darbar Festival, which we are proud to be hosting this year for the first time, while our Resident Company New Adventures lights up the festive season with the return of Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella.

Another first I am delighted about is Meg Stuart’s debut on our main stage in November. Meg has been a major figure on the European dance scene for many years, and I’m really pleased her innovative and emotive work is finally getting the exposure it deserves here in London. These productions reflect the vibrantly diverse spectrum of ideas, choreographic voices, curatorial perspectives and dance styles finding a platform on our stage today, as well as our ongoing commitment to open up the theatre in order to widen and enrich our own and our audiences’ views. Thank you for supporting Sadler’s Wells and our work. None of this could happen without you. I hope you enjoy the season and accept our invitation to find out more about dance and be moved by what you experience. If you find yourself changing the way you feel or think about something you see, we will have done our job well.

Alistair Spalding CBE Artistic Director and Chief Executive

First encounters New names on the Sadler’s Wells stage

Kyle Abraham’s Pavement. Photo: Carrie Schneider

First encounters happen anywhere, including the theatre. Entering an artist’s world and experiencing its idiosyncrasies is like meeting someone for the first time. Not quite a blind date, these encounters do however require trust, as the experience becomes a journey of discovery once the curtain goes up. This autumn three distinguished dance artists bring their world to Sadler’s Wells for the first time. New to the theatre, but by no means to London, is seasoned choreographer Shobana Jeyasingh presenting Bayadère - The Ninth Life, a work inspired by the famous 19th century ballet (see page 19). Born in Chennai, India, with roots in Sri Lanka and Malaysia, Jeyasingh has lived and worked in London for the last 29 years. She creates an inventive, hybrid world which draws from a variety of dance styles both classical and contemporary. Strong in the belief of the power of dance, her work engages 2

with it both as a physical and intellectual form. American choreographer Meg Stuart comes to Sadler’s Wells for the first time via Berlin and Brussels, her home for the last 20 years. Stuart is a major dance artist at the forefront of choreographic developments. Her work crosses different territories from theatre to visual arts, anchored in the idea that the body, however uncertain and vulnerable, holds meaning. This is a rare chance to experience the peculiar beauty of a world where charismatic performers surrender to a seemingly chaotic universe with striking commitment and risk. UNTIL OUR HEARTS STOP (see page 30) questions many norms, not without humour. Don’t miss this performance in London for one night only. As part of our Debut series, introducing rising dance names to Sadler’s Wells, American choreographer Kyle Abraham presents the

poignant Pavement (see page 31). From New York City the company Abraham.In.Motion delves into racial tension and discrimination with a distinctive movement style rooted in hip hop, both sensual and provocative, putting the emphasis on human personalities. This is a chance to catch a rising company with something to say. We hope you will take that step and have your own first encounters this season.

Sadler’s Wells Debut A chance to discover the work of choreographers new to Sadler’s Wells. This series highlights dance artists we believe in and want you to notice, with a special ticket price and a free post-show talk after the performance to find out more.

Meg Stuartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UNTIL OUR HEARTS STOP. Photo: Iris Janke

Beyond the theatre Inspiring young artists

Sadler’s Wells’ learning and engagement work draws directly on the organisation’s artistic programme to inspire people of all ages and abilities to connect with dance and explore their own creativity. We are passionate about engaging young people in our work and strongly believe that dance can play a positive role in their lives as they grow up. Through the work of our Learning & Engagement team, we are able to connect young people with our artistic programme in schools and colleges as well as with opportunities outside of formal education. The performances presented at Sadler’s Wells are of huge relevance to young people who are studying dance at school or college. This season features five choreographers who are included on the A-Level Dance

Emma Farnell-Watson in NYDC’s (in between). Photo: Tony Nandi 4

curriculum: Matthew Bourne, Shobana Jeyasingh, Akram Khan, Hofesh Shechter and Jasmin Vardimon. There will be opportunities for teachers to gain further insight into these choreographers’ works through a series of talks and masterclasses. We are also delighted to be supporting New Wave Associate Alexander Whitley on the delivery of a project for primary schools, which will use his production 8 Minutes to explore the relationship between dance and science. This autumn Whitley will be leading an intensive residency at one of our Associate Primary Schools in Islington. The project will culminate with the school performing their work to an invited audience in the Lilian Baylis Studio, as well as watching an extract of 8 Minutes performed by Alexander Whitley Dance Company. This year our work supporting young talent enters into an exciting new phase. We will start our sixth year of running the National Youth Dance Company with a large number of dancers from the company’s first cohort in 2013 graduating from full time training. We look forward to seeing what they go on to achieve and the contribution they make to the dance sector in the future. Two alumni from the National

Molly Walker in NYDC’s In-Nocentes. Photo: Jane Hobson

Youth Dance Company, Emma Farnell-Watson and Molly Walker are due to perform at Sadler’s Wells in the autumn in Jasmin Vardimon’s Pinocchio and Michael Keegan-Dolan’s Swan Lake/Loch na hEala respectively. Sadler’s Wells’ learning and engagement work also extends towards artist development through supporting young artists as they embark on careers after they leave school. This support continues through the Summer University, New Wave Associates and Associate Artists schemes. For more information about our Learning & Engagement work, see sadlerswells.com/learning

Alexander Whitley Dance Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 8 Minutes in rehearsal. Photo: Johan Persson

Sadler’s Wells on tour September - November 2017 in a row, Sadler’s Wells will also be presenting work at Wilderness Festival. For full tour dates see sadlerswells.com/touring Visit our blog for the latest news on tours in the UK and overseas: sadlerswellsontour.com Breakin’ Convention. Photo: Paul Hampartsoumian

Sadler’s Wells’ impressive portfolio of productions continues to tour across the UK and internationally, giving more and more people the opportunity to experience high quality dance in their own neighbourhood.

Find us on tour Nitin Sawhney & Wang Ramirez Dystopian Dream 29 & 30 September Luxembourg

This autumn sees the first major tour of Carlos Acosta’s new company Acosta Danza, as part of our regional touring initiative The Movement, with The Lowry, Salford and Birmingham Hippodrome. There’s also the world premiere of the new collaboration between composer Nitin Sawhney and contemporary dance duo Wang Ramirez, Dystopian Dream, in Luxembourg. This summer, Sadler’s Wells will be headlining the Waterfront stage at Latitude Festival for the tenth consecutive year. Audiences can expect to see innovative dance from Boy Blue Entertainment, National Youth Dance Company and New Adventures amongst others. For the second year 6

Vamos Cuba! Photo: Johan Persson

Acosta Danza Debut 3 October - 11 November Neuss, St Pölten, Salford, Birmingham, Southampton, Brighton, Istanbul, Edinburgh Breakin’ Convention 13 October - 5 November Charlotte, Miami, Harlem, Denver Vamos Cuba! 20 October - 17 November Bromley, Luxembourg

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Alexander Whitley Dance Company 8 Minutes

Alain Platel/les ballets C de la B nicht schlafen

WORLD PREMIERE Tuesday 27 & Wednesday 28 June

Friday 30 June & Saturday 1 July

Tue & Wed at 7.30pm £20 Free post-show talk: Tue Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Tue

Fri & Sat at 7.30pm £20

Sadler’s Wells New Wave Associate Alexander Whitley draws inspiration from images and data of solar science research for his company’s main stage debut, working with scientists from STFC RAL Space at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. With a specially created score by the electroacoustic music innovator Daniel Wohl and an installation of high-definition imagery from visual artist Tal Rosner. Supported by The Monument Trust and The Edwin Fox Foundation New Wave Associates is supported by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation

The trailblazing Alain Platel returns with his critically acclaimed contemporary ensemble les ballets C de la B. Inspired by the music of Gustav Mahler and the time the composer was alive, Platel draws parallels between the music and the troubled early years of the 20th century in Europe. With a surprising soundscape from Platel’s regular collaborator, Steven Prengels and sculpture from visual artist Berlinde De Bruyckere, this is a dance of life and death.

“One of the most influential dance theatre companies in the world” The Guardian This production was previously announced

This production was previously announced Photo: Johan Persson. Design: Joe Walkling

Photo: Chris Van der Burght

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Sisters Grimm Voices of the Amazon

Dorrance Dance ETM: Double Down

Tuesday 4 - Saturday 8 July

Wednesday 12 - Saturday 15 July

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm £12 - £38

Following the Grammy nominated success of INALA with Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Sisters Grimm returns with the tale of a water spirit from the Amazon River, who discovers that the forest is not as abundant as it once was. Award-winning American choreographer Helen Pickett fuses ballet, contemporary dance and capoeira with a lush musical score borne of a collaboration with Brazilian songwriters and world-renowned percussionists, Olodum.

“A show that enchants as much as it impresses’’ Daily Telegraph on INALA

Wed - Sat at 7.30pm £12 - £45

Michelle Dorrance brings tap into the age of electronic music with collaborator Nicholas Van Young’s electronic tap boards, as every step, swipe and scrape sets off an element of sound, building musical loops and turning the stage into a musical instrument in its own right. With Afro-Brazilian, indie-pop, and even a bit of Adele triggered by the eight dancers’ fabulous footwork, this takes the first American dance form to a new level.

“A fresh and innovative show” New York Times This production was previously announced

This production was previously announced

Photo: Giulietta Verdon-Roe

Photo: Hayim Heron

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Paco Peña Flamenco Dance Company Flamencura Tuesday 8 - Saturday 12 August The master of flamenco Paco Peña brings a blast of Spain to London this summer. The legendary guitarist, composer, dramatist and producer returns to Sadler’s Wells with his five-star show Flamencura, an electrifying showcase of incredible flamenco talent, journeying from Spanish folk traditions to cutting-edge contemporary takes on flamenco. The show features one of the top flamenco dancers of the new generation Ángel Muñoz, who captivates audiences with his lightning footwork and sublime sensual rhythms, while Charo Espino and Yolanda Osuna complete the trio of dancers, all accompanied by the “breathtakingly beautiful” (Daily Telegraph) guitar playing of Peña and his musicians.

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm £12 - £40 S This production was previously announced with priority booking to members

HHHHH “An exceptional evening, elegant yet imbued with force. Excellent, all of it” The Times

Photo: Jeremy Toth

Sadlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wells Theatre

Tanguera

Wednesday 19 July - Sunday 6 August On the sultry streets of Buenos Aires you will find the world of the Tanguera, the tango dancer, who must seduce men with her flashing legs and smouldering eyes in order to survive. As the young ingénue Giselle becomes a celebrated nightclub dancer, two men pull her into a dangerous spiral of love, passion and betrayal. Experience the drama and breathtaking dancing in this adrenaline-fuelled journey through the sizzling world of tango, with award-winning choreography by Argentinian dance superstar Mora Godoy.

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sun at 2pm & 7pm Sat at 2.30pm Wed 2 Aug at 2.30pm £12 - £52 Free post-show tango class: Tue S This production was previously announced

Boasting a cast of over 30 dancers and musicians, Argentina’s hit show returns to Sadler’s Wells for a strictly limited summer run.

HHHH “Pure heaven” Metro

Photo left: Alex Rumford Photo right: Manuel Navarro

Offsite: Yeomanry House

Rosie Kay Dance Company 5 SOLDIERS: The Body is the Frontline Thursday 7 - Saturday 9 September

Thu - Sat at 7.30pm

In 2008, choreographer Rosie Kay joined the 4th Battalion The Rifles, to watch and participate in full battle exercises, and visited the Defence and National Rehabilitation Centre for our Armed Forces. What came of these observations is this award-winning, five-star work, performed live at Yeomanry House, Bloomsbury.

£20 (£15 concs*) Free post-show talk after each performance In association with The Army

Deeply realistic, stark and thrilling, 5 SOLDIERS offers no moral stance on war, but instead questions what it is that we ask of our soldiers and explores how the human body remains essential to war, even in the 21st century, with Kay’s trademark intense physical and athletic dance theatre.

S * Concessions available for members of the Armed Forces, Access members, students, under 18s and over 60s

HHHHH “War from a female perspective packs a punch” The Observer

Photo: Tim Cross

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Hofesh Shechter Company Grand Finale UK PREMIERE Tuesday 12 - Saturday 16 September

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm

Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Hofesh Shechter’s work is part dance, part gig, part theatre and is instantly identifiable.

£12 - £32 Free post-show talk: Wed

Balancing the comic and the bleak, the anarchic and the violent, ten dancers share the stage with a band of musicians, playing an original score to the backing track of Shechter’s trademark cinematic electronic sounds and vocal chants.

Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Tue Age guidance: 14+

From the creator of the modern classic Political Mother, Grand Finale is a cold and powerful vision of a world in freefall, where emotions spiral away as humanity is catapulted towards the abyss.

Supported by The Monument Trust S This production was previously announced with priority booking to members

Photo: ®Rahi Rezvani

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

English National Ballet Akram Khan’s Giselle Wednesday 20 - Saturday 23 September After its sensational hit run last year, Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Akram Khan’s staggering reimagining of the iconic ballet for English National Ballet returns. Relocating the classic tale of love, betrayal and redemption to a community of migrant garment factory workers, kept apart from the lavish lives of their landlords by a high wall, this “beautiful and intelligent remaking” (New York Times) has stunning costumes and set design by Academy Award-winning designer Tim Yip (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon), and stirring music by Vincenzo Lamagna adapted from the original Adolphe Adam score, performed live by English National Ballet Philharmonic.

Wed - Sat at 7.30pm Thu at 2pm Sat at 2.30pm £12 - £55 Supported by The Monument Trust This production was previously announced

HHHHH “A masterpiece of 21st century dance” Mail on Sunday

Photo: Cesar Corrales and Stina Quagebeur in Akram Khan’s Giselle © Laurent Liotardo

Company Wayne McGregor Autobiography WORLD PREMIERE Wednesday 4 - Saturday 7 October

Wed - Sat at 7.30pm

The visionary contemporary choreographer Wayne McGregor has led his company onto ever more radical and challenging innovations. With Sadler’s Wells Resident Company, Company Wayne McGregor, he embarks on his boldest and most intimate collaboration to date, as he allows world-leading geneticists to sequence his entire genome.

£12 - £32

His personal biological archaeology laid bare will dramatically alter McGregor’s viewpoint on his own life-story, tracing patterns back into the ancestral past of our species and illuminating what creates our individuality. Combining memoir, documentary and a re-processing of nature’s code through an act of human imagination, this new work charts McGregor’s adventure into his autobiography, and asks how to understand a life.

Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Wed Supported by The Monument Trust S

“Extraordinary. Sometimes, five stars is not enough” The Independent on Tree of Codes

Photo: Ravi Deepres

Discover Acosta Danza Dance legend Carlos Acosta begins a new chapter inspired by Cuba

After over 20 years as one of the world’s leading ballet dancers, Carlos Acosta has embarked on a new endeavour a company of his own. Acosta Danza, which launched in Cuba in 2016, will tour the UK for the first time this autumn, starting at Sadler’s Wells where it became an Associate Company last year. Based in Havana, the company is entirely made up of Cuban dancers including Acosta himself, who will make occasional guest appearances. Speaking about the company, Acosta says “I had been asking myself for a long time what’s next? I wanted to help Cuba. I wanted to help my nation. I wanted to make bridges with other nations and make collaborations. I wanted my company to contribute to the artistic scene in the nation.” The company draws on a

wealth of artistic talent that has previously been hidden from the world, and aims to develop new talent for the future. Alongside existing pieces, the company will perform new commissions created by some of the world’s most exciting dance-makers. These new works will have one strict guideline: they must be inspired by the richness of Cuban culture. The company dancers have trained in a variety of disciplines and will embrace many genres. Acosta continues “I wanted to create a company that doesn’t quite look like any other company in the country. A company that embraces all art forms and dance forms. You could dance something on pointe, something very avant-garde

contemporary or even some folkloric elements and always from a Cuban perspective.” Acosta Danza will tour the UK in autumn 2017, with the premiere at Sadler’s Wells 27 - 30 September. See opposite page for full details. Acosta Danza is produced by Sadler’s Wells and Valid Productions with coproduction support from The Movement and Festspielhaus St Pölten. The Movement is a dance producing partnership between Birmingham Hippodrome, The Lowry in Salford and Sadler’s Wells. Supported by Arts Council England, The Movement aims to nurture talent and bring large scale dance productions to even wider audiences.

Photo: Manuel Vason 16

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Acosta Danza Debut Wednesday 27 - Saturday 30 September Following an exceptional career as a ballet star, international dance icon Carlos Acosta launches his brand new company, Acosta Danza. Made up of the best dancers Cuba has to offer, the company includes dancers who have trained in both ballet and contemporary dance styles. They will perform new and existing pieces by Cuban choreographers who have rarely been seen outside the country, and commission new pieces from international choreographers who will take inspiration from their iconic nation. For their first UK tour, in which Acosta himself makes a guest appearance, they will perform works by Cuban choreographer Marianela Boán, Spanish dance-maker Goyo Montero, New York City Ballet resident choreographer Justin Peck and Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui.

Wed - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm £12 - £55 Pre-show Director’s Conversation: Fri at 6pm £7.50 (£4 with ticket to Fri performance) Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Thu Supported by The Monument Trust Members of the Acosta Danza Circle S This production was previously announced with priority booking to members

Photo: Manuel Vason

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

BalletBoyz 14 Days Tuesday 10 - Saturday 14 October BalletBoyz are back with an exciting quartet of new works playing with the concept of balance and imbalance. Choreographers Javier de Frutos, Craig Revel Horwood, Iván Pérez and Christopher Wheeldon have teamed up with composers Scott Walker, Charlotte Harding, Joby Talbot and Keaton Henson to create their pieces. Fallen forms the second half of the evening, choreographed by Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Russell Maliphant and set to a powerful score by French film composer Armand Amar. Fallen won the award for Best Modern Choreography at the 2013 National Dance Awards and features lighting from Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Michael Hulls.

“A paradox of muscular impact and weightless flight that I’ve never seen on stage” The Guardian

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm £12 - £40 Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Tue Supported by The Monument Trust S

Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Bayadère - The Ninth Life Monday 16 & Tuesday 17 October

Mon & Tue at 7.30pm

Ground-breaking dance-maker Shobana Jeyasingh brings her radical imagination to Petipa’s legendary ballet La Bayadère. More than a retelling, it searches for the roots of the Bayadère herself and the allure she exerted in Europe over the centuries.

£12 - £27

The words of the celebrated French writer Théophile Gautier, who recorded his ambiguous impressions of Indian temple dancers in 1838, add to the rich mix of Gabriel Prokofiev’s specially commissioned score to form a unique and personal work.

Free post-show talk: Tue Supported by The Monument Trust S

Featuring a bold new design created by the award-winning contemporary theatre designer Tom Piper, following its premiere at the Linbury Studio Theatre, Royal Opera House in 2015.

“Marvellous, inspiring mesh of history, poetry and ideas” The Guardian

Photo: Chris Nash

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Darbar Festival 2017 Akram Khan curates a celebration of classical Indian music and dance Delve into the best of current classical Indian music and dance as Darbar comes to Sadler’s Wells for the first time, building on its success since launching over ten years ago. Alongside revered musical masters of the Indian subcontinent and new talents, Darbar and Sadler’s Wells join forces to offer an unprecedented classical dance programme specially curated by Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Akram Khan. A rare chance to experience the vibrancy and emotional power of these two art forms, live. “Everything a classical festival should be” JazzFM

Akram Khan, Raga & Tala Experience

S Sadler’s Wells Theatre Thu 9 Nov at 6.30pm - 10.30pm £12 - £50 Akram Khan performs a short solo, focussing on his kathak tradition, the classical dance form from North India. Patri Satish Kumar, a musician from the great Carnatic tradition performs with the percussionists Ghatam V Suresh and Amrit on khanjira. Then Pravin Godkhindi and Surpreet Deshpande follow with beautiful ragas - one of the key structures of Indian music, on basuri flute and tabla, India’s iconic percussion drums.

Ragas, Sarod and Fiery Dance

S Sadler’s Wells Theatre Fri 10 Nov at 7pm - 10.30pm £12 - £45 A triple bill of dynamic new talents with international star of bharatanatyam, Mythili Prakash and noted kathak perfomer Dheerandra Tiwari, plus a music concert by the remarkable Debasmita Bhattacharya on the emotive sarod joined by Gurdain Rayatt on tabla.

Secret of Midnight Ragas

Lilian Baylis Studio Fri 10 Nov at 11.30pm - 1am £25 seated £20 cushion floor seating Indrani Mukherjee is one of the finest classical vocalists performing today. In this intimate baithak (traditional floor seated concert) she will perform night time ragas into the small hours, accompanied by Sanju Sahai on tabla and Miliand Kuljarni on the harmonium.

Escape Through Morning Ragas

Lilian Baylis Studio Sat 11 Nov at 10am - 11.30am £25 seated £20 cushion floor seating Pandit Ram Kumar Mallick and Samit Kumar unfold their morning ragas, accompanied by Surdarshan Chana on the jori, a powerful percussion instrument from Punjab.

Afternoon Raga Effect

Indian Adventures of Sitar and Dance

S Lilian Baylis Studio Sat 11 Nov at 12.30pm £25 seated £20 cushion floor seating Arshad Khan envelops the audience through afternoon ragas, with the esraj, an earthy and soul stirring string instrument. The brilliant tabla master, Shabaz Hussain, accompanies.

Sadler’s Wells Theatre S Sat 11 Nov at 7pm - 11pm £12 - £45 A rare chance to see two internationally acclaimed dance artists. Kathak dancer Aditi Mangaldas, and bharatanatyam soloist Mavin Khoo who performs with vocalist OS Arun, plus one of India’s most distinctive sitarists of her generation Shahana Banerjee with Surpreet Deshpande on tabla.

Benares Rhythm Essentials

Lilian Baylis Studio Sat 11 Nov at 11.30pm £25 seated £20 cushion floor seating Stories of the Sikhs’ persecution by Moghul rulers are evoked by the emerging master Surdarshan Chana, using the jori and the language of paranth (oral notation). He is accompanied by Milind Kulkarni on the harmonium.

Spirit of Morning Ragas

S Lilian Baylis Studio Sun 12 Nov at 10am £25 seated and £20 cushion floor seating Indrani Mukherjee’s honeyed vocal timbre envelops the intimate baithak concert with harmonium maestro, Milind Kulkarni and tabla performer Gurdain Rayatt.

Rhythm Unleashed

FP Lilian Baylis Studio S Sun 12 Nov at 12.30pm £25 seated £20 cushion floor seating Surpreet Deshpande is emerging as a rhythmic tabla genius. In his UK debut, he explores traditional rhythmic patterns as he unravels improvised ragas whilst taking inspiration from the audience, accompanied by Milind Kulkarni.

Seeta Patel: Something Then, Something Now

Lilian Baylis Studio Sun 12 Nov at 7pm £20 First created for Wild Card at Sadler’s Wells, this solo presents classical bharatanatyam repertoire in a contemporary way. With stunning light design by Guy Hoare, one of the most talented dancers in the UK, returns with a developed full evening work first previewed at Darbar 2016.

Nishat Khan and the Soul of Khayal

S Sadler’s Wells Theatre Sun 12 Nov at 5.30pm - 9.30pm £12 - £45 The vocalist Kaivalya Kumar interprets spiritual evening songs from the North Indian khayal tradition and the virtuoso sitar player Nishat Khan, torch bearer of one of India’s most renowned musical families, performs with tabla maestro Shahbaz Hussain.

Insights into Indian dance from leading artists with talks and live one-to-one coaching. Aditi Mangaldas live coaching Fri 10 Nov at 4pm £10 Mavin Khoo live coaching Sun 12 Nov at 3pm £10 Talk with Akram Khan Sat 11 Nov at 3pm £15

Get the best seats available and save money by buying a Festival Pass from Ticket Office on 020 7863 8000. For £195 you can see all the shows with the Festival Pass symbol. Attendees of Morning Raga sessions in the Lilian Baylis studio are invited to enjoy a pre-concert complimentary snack with chai This production was previously announced with priority booking to members Mythili Prakash. Photo: Jorge Vismara

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Lyon Opera Ballet Trois Grandes Fugues Thursday 19 & Friday 20 October

Thu & Fri at 7.30pm

Three acclaimed choreographers create three inimitable dance works to the same piece of music, Beethoven’s Grande Fugue op. 133.

£12 - £27

Lucinda Child’s interpretation exemplifies her meticulous precision and cool, complex classicism. Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker responds with an uninhibited, masculine and non-classical vocabulary, whilst Maguy Marin creates an exhilarating whirlwind where life is reduced to a race against death.

Talk Amongst Ourselves Free post-show talk: Thu Free pre-show performance by local community groups: Fri at 6.45pm S

Trois Grandes Fugues is a chance to see three personal and sophisticated responses to Beethoven’s impassioned score, and marks a welcome return to the world class dancers of Lyon Opera Ballet back to Sadler’s Wells after more than a decade, as part of the London-wide dance festival, Dance Umbrella.

“The experience is riveting” New York Times

Photo: Stofleth

Birmingham Royal Ballet Aladdin

Birmingham Royal Ballet Arcadia / Le Baiser de la fée / ‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Café

Tuesday 31 October - Thursday 2 November

Friday 3 & Saturday 4 November

Tue - Thu at 7.30pm, Wed at 2pm £12 - £45, £12 - £35 (wed matinee) Wed at 2pm Touch tour at 11.30am Free pre-show talk: Wed at 6.30pm First Steps, A Child’s Aladdin: Thu at 1pm £12.50

Fri & Sat at 7.30pm, Sat at 2.30pm £12 - £45

A cave of riches is waiting to be explored in David Bintley’s glittering production of the classic story of Aladdin and his adventures with the magic lamp. Featuring lavish sets and costumes, stunning special effects, beautiful choreography and a larger-than-life Chinese lion, it also boasts a score by BAFTA awardwinning composer Carl Davis, played live by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, and dazzling designs from Dick Bird and Sue Blane.

“A delightful family show. It is absolutely astonishing”

A mixed programme of new work and muchloved pieces. The ancient god Pan is unleashed in Birmingham Royal Ballet first artist Ruth Brill’s Arcadia, created to a score from saxophonist John Harle. Michael Corder’s Le Baiser de la fée is a beautiful interpretation of this classic fairy tale. Finally, a morris-dancing flea, a ballroom-dancing ram and many more endangered animals seek shelter from the storm in David Bintley’s ‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Café.

“So perfect you could watch it every day” Evening Standard on ‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Café

Daily Telegraph

Photo: Bill Cooper

Photo: Adrian Burrows

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Meg Stuart / Damaged Goods & Münchner Kammerspiele UNTIL OUR HEARTS STOP

UK PREMIERE

Wednesday 15 November

Wed at 7.30pm

Acclaimed American choreographer Meg Stuart’s work is constantly shifting, developing a new language and set of rules for every piece. With UNTIL OUR HEARTS STOP, Stuart drew inspiration from the people who create their own, fantastical, rules as they retreat from real life.

£12 - £32

Six performers and three musicians find themselves in a place that is both a nightclub and an arena: a place of desire and illusion, experiencing extreme intimacy at each other’s hands in their high-octane refuge. To the sound of throbbing basses, piano and drums, they connect and explore each other, and draw the audience into their immersive world.

Pre-show talk with Tim Etchells: Wed at 6pm £4 Age guidance: 14+ Contains some nudity S

“Chafes against the life that keeps on going until nothing but a breathing body and a beating heart remain” De Standaard

Photo: Maarten Vanden Abeele

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Kyle Abraham / Abraham.In.Motion Pavement SADLER’S WELLS DEBUT Friday 17 & Saturday 18 November

Fri & Sat at 7.30pm

Dancer and choreographer Kyle Abraham combines balletic and hip hop movements in his trademark, interdisciplinary style. He has created work for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, New York City Ballet’s Wendy Whelan, as well as for his own company Abraham.In.Motion, who are now performing at Sadler’s Wells for the first time.

£20

Inspired by the 1991 John Singleton film, Boyz N The Hood, the writings of American civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois and Abraham’s own childhood, Pavement takes seven dancers through a culture plagued by discrimination and genocide in Pittsburgh’s historically black neighbourhoods, set to an eclectic mix of Bach, Benjamin Britten, Sam Cooke and Donny Hathaway.

Free post-show talk: Fri Age guidance: 7+ Contains adult language

“It sits in your throat, burning. And it stays with you” Washington Post

Photo: Carrie Schneider

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Rambert A Linha Curva, and other works Tuesday 21 - Saturday 25 November Itzik Galili’s party piece for Rambert returns to Sadler’s Wells for a percussion-fuelled carnival of dance. 28 dancers, four samba drummers and a dazzling light show contribute to its infectious energy. Rising star Ben Duke’s dance theatre creation is inspired by the music and spirit of Nina Simone, with a selection of her bestloved songs performed live on stage. The programme also features a celebration of the dancers’ virtuosity choreographed by Andonis Foniadakis, director of Greek National Opera Ballet, with a newly commissioned score by Ilan Eshkeri.

“A sexily samba-soaked, hip-swinging, arm-waving, whistle-blowing fiesta” Daily Telegraph on A Linha Curva

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm £12 - £40 Sat Mat at 2.30pm A shorter programme, with a special introduction £8 - £20 Family ticket for Sat Mat: £40 (four tickets including at least one under 16) Sign language interpreted show: Wed Free pre-show talks: With Artistic Director Mark Baldwin, Wed at 6.30pm With Music Director Paul Hoskins, Fri at 6.30pm Schools Mat: Thu at 1.30pm S

Photo: © Tristram Kenton

Michael Keegan-Dolan / Teaċ Daṁsa Swan Lake/Loch na hEala Thursday 30 November - Saturday 2 December

Thu - Sat at 7.30pm

After its sell-out success last year, a string of five star reviews and Best Production award-win at the Irish Times Irish Theatre Awards, Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Michael Keegan-Dolan’s magical adaptation of one of the most famous ballets in the world returns to Sadler’s Wells.

£12 - £40

Performed by a company of 13 world-class performers including actor Mikel Murfi, this production is interwoven with storytelling, song and live music. Dublin-based band Slow Moving Cloud’s score combines Nordic and Irish traditional music with minimalist and experimental influences. With beautiful dancing and powerful imagery, this Swan Lake is rooted in the Midlands of Ireland where ancient mythology and the modern world collide.

Pre-show Director’s Conversation: Fri at 6pm £7.50 (£4 with ticket to Fri performance) Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Thu Age guidance: 16+ Contains strong language and scenes of a sexual nature S

HHHHH “A thing of wonder” The Observer

Photo: Colm Hogan

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

“A valentine to the power of love” LA Times

“Wonderful. A perfect treat. Bourne’s vision is glorious” Daily Telegraph

A New Adventures Production

New Adventures Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella Saturday 9 December - Saturday 27 January Following the sold-out and critical success of The Red Shoes, New Adventures returns to Sadler’s Wells this Christmas with a thrilling love story set in London during the Second World War, which forms part of the company’s 30th anniversary celebrations. A chance meeting results in a magical night for Cinderella and her dashing young RAF pilot, together just long enough to fall in love before being parted by the horrors of the Blitz. Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella takes the audience into the heart of Prokofiev’s magnificent score, and the sights and sounds of war-torn London, with surround sound designed by Paul Groothuis, and a specially commissioned recording of a 60piece orchestra, Lez Brotherston’s Olivier Award-winning designs and lighting by Olivier Award-winning Neil Austin.

“A gripping theatrical spectacle” The Guardian

Performance times vary on selected dates. For full schedule, visit sadlerswells.com £12 - £69 Family Ticket: £190 (four tickets including at least one child). Available on £59 and £49 seats. Date restrictions apply. Audio Described Performance: Sat 13 Jan, 2.30pm Workshop at 11am Touch Tour at 1pm Supper at Sadler’s Special pre-show supper: 13 Dec - 27 Jan For full details: sadlerswells.com/supper

This production was previously announced with priority booking to members Photo: Hugo Glendinning

Lilian Baylis Studio Fertile ground for new perspectives

Dance as a contemporary art form is a relatively young affair. Since the 1960’s breakthroughs, its shape seems to be ever-expanding, having outgrown the commonly understood notion of dancing and the traditional meaning of choreography; it has evolved into a vast field of possibilities across continents and aesthetics. At Sadler’s Wells, the Lilian Baylis Studio is where you can encounter some of the most current developments in what dance and choreography can be, both home-grown and from further shores. Year round, the Lilian Baylis Studio offers a carefully curated programme of singular perspectives from many of the most thought-provoking dance-makers working today, often at earlier stages of their careers but also from key acclaimed artists. The works presented in the intimacy of the studio tend to share a critical perspective on the art form and on the world. It is a fertile ground for artists exploring the potential of dance.

Changing in configuration, the studio also joyfully fosters experiments on being together in the theatre, including work that invites children in. At the crossroad of many disciplines and lesser known dance practices, you will also find provocations dealing with the actual form dance takes.

(see page 38). And last but not least, the Lilian Baylis Studio becomes home to little ones with Arthur Pita’s The Little Match Girl (see page 47), a compassionate tale for the festive season.

Underpinned by ongoing artist support, this season sees the development of several ideas which started as experiments in Wild Card, a regular series offering alternative perspectives. Pepa Ubera returns with a poetic work (see page 38) as does Seeta Patel with her contemporary presentation of bharatanatyam, part of the Darbar Festival (see (pages 20 - 21). This season’s Wild Card is curated by Gianluca Vincentini introducing talent from the North of England (see page 39). And Joe Moran (see page 37) premieres a brand new work making dancers’ thinking visible.

For the latest production listings: sadlerswells.com/ lilianbaylisstudio

There is also a rare chance to catch sought-after international artists with the mischievous Jan Martens’ new work (see page 37) and Maud Le Pladec’s feminist HUNTED

Join us and be part of dance reimagining itself.

Lilian Baylis Studio

Joe Moran / Dance Art Foundation On The Habit of Being Oneself

Jan Martens RULE OF THREE UK PREMIERE

UK PREMIERE Thursday 28 & Friday 29 September

Thursday 19 & Friday 20 October

Thu & Fri at 8pm £17 Free post-show talk: Thu

On The Habit of Being Oneself is an arresting dance experiment enticing us to pay attention to what dancing does. On a stripped back stage, seven exceptional dancers relentlessly navigate complex choreographic puzzles. The result is a challenging yet immediate encounter with dancers and dancing. A new solo and film installation open the evening.

Created by Jan Martens, one of the most original Belgian choreographers of his generation, RULE OF THREE is a new work from someone who likes to surprise.

Joe Moran creates work concerned with dance’s potential as a contemporary art form, both in theatres and galleries.

“Thoughtful, challenging and wide-ranging stuff” Time Out

Falling somewhere between concert and short stories, it features American drummer NAH performing live with the three dancers, recreating the atmosphere of a hardcore nightclub. Rhythm, light and movement accumulate, before being stripped back in an untamed meditation, reminiscent of getting lost in the pages of a book.

“He transforms ‘normality’ into an exception that is worth watching” De Standaard

Photo: Jesus Ubera

Lilian Baylis Studio

Pepa Ubera and Josefina Camus Ellipsis Land

Maud Le Pladec / Okwui Okpokwasili HUNTED

UK PREMIERE Thursday 2 & Friday 3 November Thu & Fri at 8pm £17 Free post-show talk: Thu

Movement, video and sound combine in Pepa Ubera and Josefina Camus’ duet Ellipsis Land as they explore the relationship between the body and the technology surrounding it. They invite us to consider the body as a container of energy in a sensorial set up, heightening our perceptions. With an original sound score by Simone Salvaticci creating an ambient immersive landscape, they aim to awaken unnoticed connections between the concrete and the digital.

“The kind of cryptic that intrigues rather than bewilders” DanceTabs

UK PREMIERE Thursday 16 & Friday 17 November Thu & Fri at 8pm £17 Free post-show talk: Thu Contains some strong language

For centuries, troublesome, disobedient and independent women have been labeled: witch. Today this term is being re-appropriated. In HUNTED, up and coming French choreographer Maud Le Pladec collaborated with New York writer and performer Okwui Okpokwasili to create a chant of words and movement, with music by one of Finland’s foremost contemporary composers, Kalevi Aho. Performed in London by Dorothée Munyaneza, this powerful solo uses storytelling and ritual to evoke the witch in every woman.

“Feline, predatory, strong and agile” Inferno Magazine about Dorothée Munyaneza

Photo: Camilla Greenwell

Photo: Caroline Ablain

Wild Card Gianluca Vincentini Thursday 23 & Friday 24 November

Thu & Fri at 8pm

Wild Card brings fresh perspectives from a new generation of dance-makers curating special evenings.

£17 Pre-show activities at 7pm

Originally from Italy, choreographer and curator Gianluca Vincentini is passionate about nurturing dance artists. Curious about the entwined nature of movement and emotion, Vincentini believes that dance can reveal the complexity of our intimate connections to each other, without compromising entertainment.

For Wild Card, he showcases some of the most promising dancemakers based in the North of England: Carlos Pons Guerra, Crystal Zillwood and Jamaal Burkmar (New Adventures Choreographer Award-winner). The evening also introduces Vincentini’s company Möbius Dance, devoted to working with early career artists.

“An excellent showcase” Dance Europe on Vincentini’s curation of Verve

Photo: Danilo Moroni

The Peacock From Bollywood to Hollywood and from the Wild West to Havana As ever, this season at The Peacock offers an incredible mix of high quality work, with every performance featuring live music. From the choreographers of the smash hit The Merchants of Bollywood comes a spectacular new show, Taj Express. Direct from its acclaimed US tour, and choreographed by Shruti and Vaibhavi Merchant, Taj Express features the live music and lyrics of the film legend A.R. Rahman, Monty Sharma and other top composers. Jump on the Express as the show takes the audience into the dazzling world of the Bollywood movie industry.

Our new season opens with a rip-roaring production of Footloose. This classic show has the multi-talented cast singing and dancing, as well as performing all the music live on stage, and presents a great opportunity to hear the fabulous voice of Gareth Gates once again. By contrast Saloon, in October, transports you to the Wild West, as Cirque Éloize presents the UK premiere of their new circus show. With a western theme, Saloon features live folk and country music combined, as ever, with the dazzling blend of circus and physical theatre skills that audiences have come to expect from Cirque Éloize.

We stay out west with our next show – which is the welcome return of Vamos Cuba!, the smash hit Cuban show that premiered at Sadler’s Wells last summer. With a nine piece live band and two singers on stage, the show fizzes with energy, as the company embark on a journey featuring music and dance styles including salsa, rumba, cha-cha-cha and reggaeton. Visit peacocktheatre.com for more information and don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel to find all the latest videos and content around these shows.

Vamos Cuba! Photo: Johan Persson

Taj Express

Footloose

Tuesday 13 June - Sunday 2 July

Tuesday 12 - Saturday 30 September

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm S FF Sat at 2.30pm, Sun at 2pm & 6pm £15 - £45 Under 16s half price. Max two half price child tickets per full paying adult

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm S Sat at 2.30pm, Sun at 2pm & 6.30pm, Wed 27 at 2.30pm £15 - £49.50 (Tue - Thu) £15 - £55 (Fri - Sat) Under 16s half price on selected prices. Max two half price child tickets per full paying adult, excluding Saturday eves

Acclaimed choreographers Vaibhavi and Shruti Merchant (The Merchants of Bollywood) bring the kaleidoscopic colours of India to The Peacock in a spectacular new musical this summer. Telling the story of young composer Shankar and his struggles in the world’s most prolific film industry, Taj Express features the stars of Bollywood and its greatest musicians live on stage! Experience a world of explosive dance, dazzling costumes and the incredible songs of Oscar® winner and film legend A.R. Rahman (Slumdog Millionaire) in this premiere production. This production was previously announced with priority booking to members

The rocking 80’s classic explodes onto the stage in a specially remastered show starring Gareth Gates and Maureen Nolan. When Ren McCormack finds out his new home has banned dancing and rock ‘n’ roll, it isn’t long before he lets loose total anarchy. Footloose combines cutting edge choreography with iconic hits from the 80s like you’ve never heard them before, including Holding Out for a Hero, Almost Paradise, Let’s Hear It For The Boy and (of course) Footloose.

HHHH “It’s a blast” Metro This production was previously announced Photo: Max Martin

Cirque Éloize Saloon UK PREMIERE Wednesday 4 - Saturday 21 October Saddle up for a journey to the Wild West as world leaders in contemporary circus, Cirque Éloize blast back to the West End with their new show. Their trademark blend of spectacular circus and drama creates the colourful characters swinging through the saloon doors. Never before has a stranger kicked up so much dust. Under the spell of Saloon’s beautiful Belle, he sets off in a chase worthy of the greatest Westerns for an action-packed theatrical thrill ride!

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm Sun at 2pm & 6.30pm £15 - £42 Under 16s half price. Max two half price child tickets per full paying adult S

With non-stop live folk and country music, with songs by Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash, and original compositions by composer Éloi Painchaud, Saloon is the most foot-stomping, lassothrowing night of entertainment you’ll find.

“A mesmerising delight” Daily Telegraph on iD

Photo: Jim Mneymneh

Vamos Cuba!

Tuesday 24 October - Saturday 11 November The scintillating spectacular from acclaimed Cuban choreographer Nilda Guerra and director Cal McCrystal returns to London. Set in the crazy chaos of Havana airport, where families are parted, lovers reunited, and time flies when you’re having fun. In a place of new beginnings and old romances, where reality calls and dreams take flight, we experience the joys and vibrancy of Cuban life with all the passion and laughter that embodies the Cuban spirit. Vamos Cuba! is an exuberant mix of traditional and modern dance styles including salsa, rumba, cha-cha-cha and reggaeton, with a live band led by Julito Padron and a cast of the hottest dancers Cuba has to offer.

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm Sun at 2pm & 6pm No perf Wed 1 Nov £15 - £42 Post-show Cuban dance class: Tue 24 & Tue 31 Oct and Tue 7 Nov Under 16s half price. Max two half price child tickets per full paying adult S

HHHH “Loveably loopy Cuban dance extravaganza” Time Out

Photo: Eduardo Rawdriguez

Family shows From the page to the stage

The Little Match Girl. Photo: Phil Conrad

Nothing beats the magic of seeing favourite characters appear live on stage, and this season we have some of our most loved fictional friends in our theatres. Tucked away in our Lilian Baylis Studio you will find The Little Match Girl selling her wares on a cold Italian street in Arthur Pita’s delightful dance theatre take on Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless tale. As the night draws in on Christmas Eve, she finds herself caught out in the cold with only the spirit of her beloved Grandmother to guide her.

Stepping out of the pages of The Arabian Nights comes the mischievous thief Aladdin, the beautiful Princess Badr al-Budur and the powerful Djinn of the magic lamp, brought to life by David Bintley and the stunning Birmingham Royal Ballet (see page 29). And of course, we could not forget our frosty friend, The Snowman, as he makes his annual trip down from the North Pole to visit us for the 20th year in a row!

Over on the main stage, we sneak into Geppetto’s workshop as he constructs the puppet that will one day be a real boy, in Jasmin Vardimon’s reimagining of Carlo Collodi’s original 1883 novel The Adventures of Pinocchio, back on our stage after its successful run last year.

The Snowman. Photo: Tristram Kenton

Look out for the little green Family Friendly button throughout the brochure which marks out the shows we think are great for younger audiences. Further age guidance can be found in the show details.

Family Shows

Jasmin Vardimon Company Pinocchio Friday 27 & Saturday 28 October

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Jasmin Vardimon is set to charm audiences once again this half term as she returns with her joyous and wildly imaginative take on the classic Collodi fairy tale.

Fri & Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm

With clever humour, engaging drama and witty observations, this theatrically innovative piece takes us on a magical adventure with Pinocchio as he discovers what it means to be human. In Vardimon’s trademark choreographic style, breath-takingly physical dancers bring to life the enchanting world of the famous marionette in this visual delight.

HHHH “Simple yet elaborate, stark but magical, Pinocchio is a pretty impressive achievement”

Adults: £18 Children: £12 Family Dance Workshop: Fri & Sat 1pm - 2pm £2 S FF

Age guidance: 7+

The Times

Photos: Ben Harries

Family Shows

Birmingham Repertory Theatre The Snowman™ Thursday 23 November - Sunday 31 December

The Peacock

Twinkling with festive spirit, The Snowman has transported children into the wintery wonderland of a boy and his magical snowman for a record-breaking 20 consecutive years at The Peacock.

11am, 2.30pm & 7pm Please note that not every date has a performance. For full schedule, see peacocktheatre.com

With a magical mix of exquisite dancing and live music – including Walking in the Air – friendship is kindled as the two embark on a starry-skied adventure to the North Pole, where they meet dancing penguins, reindeer, Father Christmas, Ice Princess, and escape the clutches of Jack Frost.

“The best kids show for Christmas by far” The Independent Based upon the book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson and produced by John Coates, with music and lyrics by Howard Blake. Design by Ruari Murchison, lighting by Tim Mitchell, choreography by Robert North and direction by Bill Alexander. By arrangement with Snowman Enterprises Limited (A Penguin Company) and Chester Music Limited.

£15 - £36 Family ticket: £115 (four tickets including at least one under 16) Early Bird £20 Offer on selected 7pm shows. Book by 29 October. For details see peacocktheatre.com S FF

Suitable for all ages

This production was previously announced

Photo: Tristram Kenton

Arthur Pita The Little Match Girl Wednesday 13 - Saturday 24 December

Lilian Baylis Studio

Celebrated director and choreographer Arthur Pita returns to the Lilian Baylis Studio this Christmas with his magical dance theatre show, The Little Match Girl.

Shows at 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm & 7pm For full schedule visit sadlerswells.com

Our unlikely heroine is an impoverished young street girl, who wanders the ever darkening streets with just one final match to keep her warm on a cold Christmas Eve. Beautifully recreated through dance, song and live atmospheric music, The Little Match Girl is a timeless fable about kindness and helping others, which will enthral young children and the whole family alike.

HHHH “Charmingly eccentric and marvellously magical. Adults will be enchanted too” Evening Standard

Adults £18 Children £12 £6 schools tickets are available. For details visit sadlerswells.com S FF

Available on adult tickets only Age guidance: for families and children age 5+

Photo: Phil Conrad

Talks, classes and assisted performances

Director’s Conversations Acosta Danza Friday 29 September, 6pm 6.45pm in the Rosebery Room: £7.50 (or £4 with ticket to show) Sadler’s Wells artistic director Alistair Spalding in conversation with Acosta Danza artistic director, Carlos Acosta, about his UK premiere. Michael Keegan-Dolan Friday 1 December, 6pm 6.45pm in the Rosebery Room: £7.50 (or £4 with ticket to show) Sadler’s Wells artistic director Alistair Spalding in conversation with Associate Artist Michael Keegan-Dolan about Swan Lake/ Loch na hEala and his dance company, Teaċ Daṁsa.

Pre and Post-Show Talks Alexander Whitley Company Tuesday 27 June Post-show talk Rosie Kay Dance Company Thursday 7 Saturday 9 September Post-show talks Hofesh Shechter Company Wednesday 13 September Post-show talk Joe Moran / Dance Art Foundation Thursday 28 September Post-show talk Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Tuesday 17 October Post-show talk Jan Martens Thursday 19 October Post-show talk Dance Umbrella Lyon Opera Ballet Thursday 19 October Talking Amongst Ourselves Post-show discussion Birmingham Royal Ballet Wednesday 1 November Pre-show talk Pepa Ubera and Josefina Camus Thursday 2 November Post-show talk Meg Stuart / Damaged Goods & Münchner Kammerspiele Wednesday 15 November Pre-show talk with Tim Etchells: £4

Michael Keegan-Dolan. Photo: Richard Gilligan

Maud Le Pladec / Okwui Okpokwasili Thursday 16 November Post-show talk Kyle Abraham / Abraham.In.Motion Friday 17 November Post-show talk

Hofesh Shechter Company’s Grand Finale in rehearsal. Photo: Rahi Rezvani

Rambert Wednesday 22 November Pre-show talk Friday 24 November Pre-show talk

Talks and Events Dance Umbrella Lyon Opera Ballet Friday 20 October Free pre-show performance Darbar Festival 2017 Saturday 11 November, 3pm - 4.30pm in the Lilian Baylis Studio: £15 In Conversation with Akram Khan Birmingham Royal Ballet Saturday 4 November, 11.15am Open company class on stage £10 free to BRB Friends

Dance Classes and Workshops Tanguera Tuesday 25 July, Tuesday 1 August Post-show tango class

Hofesh Shechter Company Thursday 14 September, 2.30pm - 6pm in the Lilian Baylis Studio: £25 A-Level Teachers Workshop

Birmingham Royal Ballet’s assistant director leads this class on technique and company repertoire. To book: brb.org.uk/masterclass

Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Tuesday 17 October, 2.30pm - 6pm in Studio C: £25 A-Level Teachers Workshop

Darbar Festival 2017 Friday 10 November, 4pm 5.30pm in Studio A: £10 Live coaching with Aditi Mangaldas

Jasmin Vardimon Company Thursday 26 October, 2.30pm - 6pm in the Lilian Baylis Studio: £25 A-Level Teachers Workshop Friday 27 & Saturday 28 October, 1pm - 2pm Studio A: £2 Family Dance Workshop Birmingham Royal Ballet Saturday 4 November, 3pm - 5pm in Studio A: £30 Professional Masterclass with Marion Tait.

Sunday 12 November, 3pm - 4.30pm in Studio A: £10 Live coaching with Mavin Khoo Vamos Cuba! Tuesday 24 October, Tuesday 31 October, Tuesday 7 November Post-show Cuban dance class

Assisted Performances Birmingham Royal Ballet Wednesday 1 November, 2pm Audio Described Performance Touch Tour at 11.30am Rambert Wednesday 22 November, 7.30pm Sign language interpreted performance New Adventures Saturday 13 January, 2.30pm Audio Described Performance Workshop at 11am Touch Tour at 1pm

New Adventures Tuesday 18 January, 2.30pm - 6pm in the Lilian Baylis Studio: £25 A-Level Teachers Workshop

Family Weekend workshop. Photo: Foteini Christofilopoulou 49

You make all the difference

Sadler’s Wells holds fast today to the vision that Lilian Baylis instilled here almost a century ago: that great art should belong to everybody. As well as being the place where artists come together to create dance, this is the place where people of all ages and from all walks of life come to experience dance – to take part, learn, experiment and be inspired. We rely on our Members, Patrons and donors to expand the community of people who give our art form its strength and in the past year, their support has helped us achieve a huge amount. We have been able to commission or produce 20 new dance works, involving over 130 UK and international artists, choreographers, composers, designers and dramaturgs. We have welcomed more than 25,000 people to our learning and participatory activities and selected 21 dance artists for the second edition of our Summer University, offering them the opportunity to further their choreographic practice free of charge. In February, our National Youth Dance Company team was based in Hull for a full week’s residency, with 39 young dancers kept busy with training in technique and performance skills, rehearsals and artistic

NYDC’s Tarantiseismic in rehearsal Photo: Gigi Giannella

development, led by guest artistic director, Damien Jalet. Looking ahead to November, we will be joining forces with the London College of Fashion for a special gala evening to raise money in support of a shared position nurturing creative talent and ensuring the next generation of dancemakers and fashion leaders are supported and empowered to keep producing boundary-breaking work. If you would like to know more, please contact Rebecca Fogg on 020 7863 8145. We have recently launched a new donors’ circle to support our investment in Carlos Acosta’s new company, Acosta Danza. Members of this very special circle will enjoy some exceptional events throughout 2017 and you can find out more from Bobette Kenge on 020 7863 8143.

If you are already a Sadler’s Wells supporter – thank you! If you would like to find out how you can help and be part of what we do, please consider joining us. Forthcoming Patrons’ Events Alexander Whitley Dance Company 8 Minutes 27 June Hofesh Shechter Company Grand Finale 12 September Acosta Danza Debut 28 September Company Wayne McGregor Autobiography 4 October BalletBoyz 14 Days 10 October Michael Keegan-Dolan / Teaċ Daṁsa Swan Lake/Loch na hEala 30 November

Memberships Sadler’s Wells is a charity, and we need the support of those who love dance to help us create exciting work with the greatest artists. Sadler’s Wells members receive exclusive benefits, including priority booking and ticket discounts. Your support enables us to make more of the dance you love.

Members

Patrons

Priority booking · Choose your seats ahead of the public

Patrons support the development of new dance, and receive exclusive benefits in return, including:

Ticket discounts · Save 20% on most tickets at Sadler’s Wells and The Peacock Communications · Season brochures mailed to your door · Priority booking information emailed in advance Terms and conditions apply: sadlerswells.com/membership

· Priority booking ahead of Rehearsal Members · Exclusive supporters’ events · Access to an allocation of tickets held for Patrons · Acknowledgement in show programmes · Regular news from Sadler’s Wells Terms and conditions apply: sadlerswells.com/patrons

£60 a year £55 in the first year if joining by Direct Debit

Patrons membership begins at £645

For more information and to join now call 020 7863 8000 or visit sadlerswells.com/membership

For full details of all our Patrons levels, the benefits offered and to join call 020 7863 8134 or visit sadlerswells.com/patrons

Rehearsal Members

Gift Memberships

All the benefits and discounts that Members receive, plus: Priority booking · Choose your seats ahead of Members

Sadler’s Wells memberships make the perfect gift for all dance lovers

Ticket access · Special ‘queue jump’ telephone booking line Offers · Four free programmes and 50% off all other programmes

Find out more at sadlerswells.com/giftmembership Terms and conditions apply: sadlerswells.com/membership

Exclusive supporters’ events · Two free Season Preview events a year · Opportunity to attend at least four free Dress Rehearsals a year Communications · Quarterly Rehearsal Member e-newsletter Terms and conditions apply: sadlerswells.com/membership

£130 a year £120 in the first year if joining by Direct Debit For more information and to join now call 020 7863 8134 or visit sadlerswells.com/membership

All details correct as of 1 February 2017 Sadler’s Wells Trust Ltd. is a registered charity 279884

The Peacock

Rosebery Avenue London EC1R 4TN Angel

Peacock Theatre Portugal Street London WC2A 2HT Holborn, Temple

020 7863 8000 sadlerswells.com

020 7863 8222 peacocktheatre.com

Front cover: Acosta Danza. Photo: Manuel Vason

Sadlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wells Theatre & Lilian Baylis Studio