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.