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Double Bill

Ballet Black

The Ballet Black Company in The Waiting Game by Mthuthuzeli November. Photography by Holly McGlynn

Dance so thrilling and imaginative that it packs our auditorium every time – the hugely popular Ballet Black is back with a double bill full of lyrical contrasts and beautiful movement.

For her latest programme, Artistic Director Cassa Pancho brings us two original works: The Royal Ballet’s Olivier Award-winning choreographer Will Tuckett's Then Or Now blends classical ballet, music and the poetry of Adrienne Rich to ask the question: in times like these, where do we belong? Mthuthuzeli November contemplates the purpose of life in The Waiting Game, an exciting and energetic work about the meaning of life, infused with a dynamic soundtrack featuring the company dancers' voices. 

Ballet Black is transforming the dance landscape by giving a platform to artists of black and Asian descent as well as to new and established choreographic voices whose unexpected stories and themes come from the heart to resonate with modern audiences. 

1 hour 30 mins, including an interval
Age guidance 7+ 

Open rehearsal event for members, Thu 13 Feb 
6pm, The Pit

Post-show talk, Fri 27 Mar
Free to same-day ticket holders

Presented and co-commissioned by the Barbican 

Reviews

‘Ambitious, atmospheric work‘
‘Bubbles of happiness bounce through the audience … a triumph‘
‘Showcases versatility and precision … gorgeous‘

Podcast

three ballet black dancers

Listen: 'Then or Now' - Adrienne Rich - a poem-score for Ballet Black

A special edition of The Poetry Exchange podcast featuring the score from Ballet Black’s new piece, Then or Now, choreographed by William Tuckett.

photo of ballet black dancers

Watch: Then or Now trailer

Watch the trailer for Ballet Black's Then or Now, choreographed by The Royal Ballet’s Olivier Award-winning Will Tuckett

photo of ballet black dancers rehearsing

Watch: The Waiting Room trailer

Mthuthuzeli November contemplates the purpose of life in The Waiting Game, an exciting and energetic work about the meaning of life, infused with a dynamic soundtrack featuring the company dancers' voices.

Theatre