Find out what you can expect from The Forsythe Programme this spring, and why this triple bill perfectly showcases his unique style.
William Forsythe is one of the most influential choreographers of the last 50 years, known for revolutionising ballet. His work combines classical technique with modern athleticism, often challenging dancers to move beyond their usual boundaries, with breathtaking results. The Forsythe Programme is the perfect way to experience his work: from the sleek dynamism and complexity of Herman Schmerman (Quintet) choreographed over 30 years ago, to the feel-good energy of Playlist (EP), and the latest iteration of Rearray (London Edition 2025), created on English National Ballet’s dancers and premiering this April at Sadler’s Wells. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Forsythe’s work, this is a perfect chance to immerse yourself in the choreographer’s unique style.
Ballet isn’t just about tradition—it can be bold, fun, and totally unexpected. Forsythe remains at the forefront of ballet’s evolution, honouring its structures whilst questioning its possibilities. This triple bill might just change your opinion about what ballet is, and what it could be.
I always feel like Mr. Forsythe is coming from the future. You think “oh, I think I understand now what we’re doing” and then he comes with new ideas and it’s so mind-blowing and it changes everything around again. He keeps his pieces alive. It’s always a process.”Stefanie Arndt, Guest Repetiteur
Forsythe is known for constantly refining and reinventing his work, and Rearray (London Edition 2025) is no exception. Originally created in 2011 for legendary dancers Sylvie Guillem and Nicolas Le Riche, and later adapted as a trio for the Paris Opera Ballet, this work has been further developed for English National Ballet. Forsythe’s process is deeply collaborative, working with the dancers to influence the structure and musicality of the piece. This means that every iteration of his work is unique, responding to the strengths and artistry of the company it is created on. Rearray (London Edition 2025) is the perfect marriage of Forsythe’s unique vision and the skill and creativity of English National Ballet’s dancers Premiering in April 2025 for our 75th Season, it offers a rare and exciting opportunity for any dance lover to experience a brand-new work.
William Forsythe’s Herman Schmerman is a ballet classic, returning to the UK stage for the first time in nearly 30 years. Created in 1992 for New York City Ballet, the piece became an instant hit, cementing Forsythe’s reputation as a groundbreaking choreographer.
In Herman Schmerman, Forsythe pushes speed, musicality, and dynamics to thrilling new levels. As part of The Forsythe Programme, we’ll be performing the Quintet from Herman Schmerman, a 12-minute piece for three women and two men, set to an electronic score by his long-time collaborator Thom Willems, and choreographed by Forsythe in just three weeks. The title, borrowed from Steve Martin’s 1982 film Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid, was chosen simply because Forsythe liked how it sounded, without any deeper meaning – a playful term to describe a celebration of the pure beauty and joy of dance.
Think ballet can’t groove? Think again. Playlist (EP) sets classical movement to the feel-good pop beats of Barry White, Natalie Cole and Khalid. The result? A performance that’s as much a party as it is a ballet. The 2022 premiere of Playlist (EP) electrified the audiences, with critics calling it ‘absolute joy’. If you love great music and fresh, vibrant choreography, this is the perfect mix.
We’ll be performing The Forsythe Programme at Sadler’s Wells Theatre from 10 – 19 April 2025. Further information and tickets can be found here.