From the archive:
THE FORSYTHE EVENING
Sadler's Wells, London
Approx 1 hour 20 min including one interval
Dance ecstasy from legendary choreographer William Forsythe
In 2018, choreographer William Forsythe and our dancers gave audiences a high when we premiered Playlist (Track 1, 2). Juxtaposing ballet classicism and athleticism with the beats of neo-soul and house music, it left the crowd whooping and wanting to join in.
In 2022, it returns – now expanded into Playlist (EP), with six music tracks ranging from Khalid and Barry White to Lion Babe, and up to 30 dancers on stage. This dance party just got bigger.
Completing this programme is Blake Works I, a soulful piece for 21 dancers set to seven songs from James Blake’s album The Colour in Anything. Solos, duets and intricate group formations reflect the poetic melodies and words of Blake’s music.
We are proud to honour this master choreographer in a special programme celebrating his enduring love and curiosity for ballet. Listen to the music tracks featuring in this electrifying bill, on Spotify here:
A dazzling joyride.★★★★★ The Times
Friends of English National Ballet receive discounts on tickets (T&Cs apply). Become a Friend today.
Main Image: Dancer: Erik Woolhouse. Photo © Jason Bell. Creative Direction: Charlotte Wilkinson Studio
Explore
Reviews
“A dazzling joyride”
The Times
“Classical bravura matched with pop songs that left a packed house on its feet, tipsy with delight”
Financial Times
Credits
Blake Works I
Choreography, Stage Design
William Forsythe
Lighting Design
Tanja Rühl, William Forsythe
Costumes
Dorothee Merg, William Forsythe
Music
James Blake; songs from The Colour in Anything
Playlist (EP)
Choreography, Stage Design, Costumes
William Forsythe
Lighting
Tanja Rühl
Music
Peven Everett – Surely Shorty
Abra – Vegas
Lion Babe – Impossible (Jax Jones remix)
Khalid – Location
Barry White – Sha La La Means I love You
Natalie Cole – This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)
