Our Autumn 2025 plans

R:Evolution

Our autumn season starts in October at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London, with R:Evolution – a celebration of four visionary dance innovators.

The programme opens with works from two of the most influential choreographers of the 20th century, both created in 1940’s New York: George Balanchine’s dazzling showcase of virtuosity, Theme and Variations, and Martha Graham’s visceral Errand into the Maze, a company premiere marking the first performance of her work by English National Ballet.

Audiences will then be treated to the 1990’s classic Herman Schmerman (Quintet) by the legendary choreographer William Forsythe, who drew inspiration from both these visionaries and continued to propel ballet into the 21st-Century.

Fast forward to present day and the work of David Dawson who is credited with evolving the artform through his physical and emotional choreographic language. This is epitomised by Dawson’s Four Last Songs, created in 2023 for English National Ballet.

The music for three of the works – by Tchaikovsky, Menotti and R. Strauss – will be performed live by English National Ballet Philharmonic conducted by Music Director, Maria Seletskaja, with soprano Madeleine Pierard singing R. Strauss’s masterwork.

Aaron S. Watkin, Artistic Director of English National Ballet said: “R:Evolution celebrates the rich lineage of four visionary choreographers, who have revolutionised ballet through decades of innovation. This programme will showcase a dynamic thread of creative evolution with works that have the power to ignite emotions. I can’t wait for our wonderful artists to share these.”

Tickets for R:Evolution at Sadler’s Wells Theatre go on sale later in spring. Sign up to our What’s On newsletter to be notified when tickets are available to buy.

The Sleeping Beauty

Honouring our commitment to the great tradition of classical ballet, we will present Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s The Sleeping Beauty – a signature production, performed exclusively by English National Ballet, from one of Britain’s most celebrated choreographers.

This timeless fairy tale will tour to venues around the UK including the Liverpool Empire (23 – 25 Oct), Manchester’s Palace Theatre (19 – 22 Oct) and Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (26 – 29 Nov).

It features stunning sets and costumes by legendary designers Nicholas Georgiadis and Peter Farmer. Tchaikovsky’s breathtaking score is played live by English National Ballet Philharmonic conducted by Maria Seletskaja, Dominic Grier and Kingsley Lin.

Getting everyone involved

With its extensive Engagement programme English National Ballet continues to be a leader in creative health, learning and participation practice.

Throughout autumn, our varied events include Ballet Club holiday activities for children and families resident in Newham and Tower Hamlets, east London; Shared Ground, offering a valuable platform for artist development through free studio space and incubator labs; and ENBYouthCo, who welcome a new company of talented young dancers from September (applications open from April 2025).

Alongside this, English National Ballet’s Dance for Parkinson’s, an evidence-based programme delivered nationally with its hub partners, and Dance for Dementia and Dancing East with Linkage Plus will provide creative health interventions that contribute to better health and well-being through artistry, creativity and community.

The company will also host Centre Stage events in London and open door events on tour.

Full details of our 2025/2026 Season will be announced in spring. Sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest news.