Best London ballets that are a must-see in 2024

As a dance enthusiast with a penchant for all things artsy, I can hardly contain my excitement about the upcoming dance shows in London next year!

Few encounters can match the sophistication, aesthetics, and emotional impact of an evening spent at the ballet.

With their enchanting new worlds, lively characters and talented dancers, they’re a wonderful escape from our so-often inelegant lives.

Fortunately, London boasts several renowned ballet companies, including the English National Ballet and London City Ballet, along with notable landmarks like the Royal Albert Hall and London Coliseum.

Currently, an abundance of fresh ballet performances are taking place or scheduled on London’s stages, ranging from classic interpretations of The Nutcracker to innovative reinterpretations of Swan Lake.

Here’s my personal rundown of the top ballet performances currently gracing the stages, catering to both seasoned plié practitioners and those just starting their Bras bas journey:

Now, allow us to pointe you in the direction of London’s best ballets.

If you enjoy spending evenings at the theatre, don’t forget to explore top-notch West End productions. Also, here are some tips on securing tickets for The 39 Steps and the entire cast lineup of Cabaret in London.

Jump to:

Where can I watch ballet in London?
Best London ballets at a glance
Best London ballets to see in 2024
Best London dance shows to see in 2024
What do I wear to the ballet in London?

Where can I watch ballet in London?

Ballet performances in London typically take place at the London Coliseum located within the West End. Yet, it’s worth noting that you can also attend shows at other venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Sadler’s Wells Theatre (located in Islington), and not forgetting the renowned Royal Opera House.

Instead of the London Coliseum, which is a more traditional location being the home of The English National Ballet, or the Royal Opera House, renowned for its grandeur and prestige, consider the Royal Albert Hall if you’re seeking something with a sense of spectacle. Performances here are staged in the round, offering an extraordinary view from every perspective.

Best London ballets at a glance

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake The Next Generation, from £15
The Nutcracker at the Royal Albert Hall, from £15
Lazgi – Dance of Soul and Love, from £18
Resurgence, from £19
Giselle, from £22
Nutcracker, from £22
Swan Lake, from £24
Circa’s Duck Pond, from £25

Best London ballets to see in 2024

Swan Lake

Best London ballets that are a must-see in 2024

Until 8th Sep 2024 – London Coliseum

This fall, the renowned Swan Lake ballet returns to London, featuring the State Ballet of Georgia and the English National Opera Orchestra. Boasting a cast of 70 performers, you’ll be captivated by the beautiful scenery and costumes while experiencing the breathtaking display of swans. Immerse yourself in Tchaikovsky’s timeless music as well.

Nutcracker

Best London ballets that are a must-see in 2024

12th Dec 2024 – 12th Jan 2025 – London Coliseum

There’s no holiday season quite like Christmas without the enchantment of The Nutcracker performance! This year, a spectacular rendition by more than 100 dancers and musicians from the English National Ballet will be gracing the London Coliseum starting from December, spreading yuletide joy and the captivating tale of Clara and the Rat King.

It’s never too early to start looking at the best Christmas shows in London.

Giselle

15th – 18th Jan 2025 – London Coliseum

Next year at the London Coliseum, experience the emotionally powerful narrative of love and reconciliation as the English National Ballet presents Giselle for a brief, four-day engagement. For those less familiar, this classic ballet revolves around a young peasant woman in love with a dashing Duke, who unbeknownst to her, is secretly engaged to another and hides his noble status.

Fun fact: Giselle was one of the first full-length ballets to be performed on pointe.

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake The Next Generation

3rd – 31st Dec 2024 – Sadler’s Wells

Acclaimed choreographer Matthew Bourne will return his innovative reinterpretation of Swan Lake to London this December. Initially premiered at Sadler’s Wells in 1995, this renowned production features the traditional female swan troupe replaced by male dancers. This rendition holds the record as the world’s longest-running ballet production on both the West End and Broadway, garnering more than 30 awards, including an Olivier and three Tonys.

The Nutcracker at the Royal Albert Hall

29th – 31st Dec 2024 – Royal Albert Hall

What’s better than one one version of The Nutcracker? Tutu! The Royal Albert Hall is also holding its own adaptation performed by Birmingham Royal Ballet’s world-class dancers and orchestra, the Royal Ballet Sinfonia.

Lazgi – Dance of Soul and Love

14th Sep 2024 – London Coliseum

In September, London will be the venue for the long-awaited debut of Lazgi, an innovative production by German choreographer Raoul Raimondo Rebeck. Presented by the National Ballet of Uzbekistan, this ballet celebrates the traditional dance Lazgi and delves into the deep-rooted history of Khorezm dancing through the ages. This ballet is unlike any other, with its fiery and profound essence.

Resurgence

11th – 14th Sep 2024 – Sadler’s Wells

After nearly three decades, Sadler’s Wells’ previous group, once known as London City Ballet, is coming back to its original location with great fanfare. In honor of this homecoming, the company will present Resurgence – an exhilarating tribute to British ballet and modern dance that promises to captivate audiences from all walks of life.

Circa’s Duck Pond

19th – 30th Dec 2024 – Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre

Experience the breathtaking acrobatics, daring airborne feats, and side-splitting humor in Circa’s Duck Pond – a contemporary twist on Swan Lake! Regardless of your ballet preference, this groundbreaking performance is destined to be an unforgettable spectacle at the Royal Festival Hall in December.

Best London dance shows to see in 2024

If you’re open to new experiences, check out these modern and unconventional dance performances that are currently happening. Here are some top recommendations for you:

Wing Chun

27th Aug – 7th Sep 2024 – Sadler’s Wells

1. “Don’t skip the remarkable dance drama that has been a huge hit at Chinese box offices. This production is based on the real-life story of Grandmaster Yip Man, a renowned martial artist. It showcases the legendary art of Wing Chun as well as Tai Chi, Bagua Zhang, Baji Quan, Praying Mantis, and other masterpieces of Chinese martial arts.”

Cirque de Soleil: Corteo

9th Jan – 2nd Mar 2025 – Royal Albert Hall

Cirque du Soleil is returning to London during winter next year with their famous show Corteo. For only eight weeks, spectators can witness the traditional breathtaking acrobatics and effects of this show, but with a unique twist. The forthcoming production will transform the venue by dividing both the seating and stage into two separate halves.

What do I wear to the ballet in London?

While plenty of people like to dress up for the ballet, there is no actual dress code.

Feel free to choose a stylish yet relaxed outfit, although any attire is acceptable. The key is to ensure you’re appropriately dressed, feeling comfortable, and able to stay that way for several hours without needing to adjust your clothing excessively.

Looking for ideas on how to spend your weekends? Check out some fun things to do in London, the top London gift experiences, and the most entertaining UK pantomimes!

2024-08-28 14:04