Romeo & Juliet

You will experience Rudolf Nureyev’s expansive staging of this Shakespearean tragedy, set to the influential score by Sergei Prokofiev. The evening is shaped by a cinematic approach to movement, which emphasises the physical danger of the feud between the Capulets and Montagues. Listen for the heavy, rhythmic brass in the ballroom sequences, which provides a stark contrast to the fluid, lyrical woodwind themes associated with the lovers. You may recognise several motifs that have become famous through their frequent use in television and film. The choreography is demanding, requiring the dancers to maintain high intensity through intricate footwork and aggressive ensemble numbers. Rather than focusing solely on romance, this production highlights the grit and violence of the street scenes. The narrative develops through a series of grand tableaux, using the full company to create a vivid sense of a city divided against itself, culminating in the quiet, sombre atmosphere of the final act.

English National Ballet is a cornerstone of the British dance landscape, known for touring major classical productions to audiences across the country. The company maintains a reputation for technical precision and has long been associated with the legacy of Rudolf Nureyev, whose choreography remains a central pillar of their repertoire. As an ensemble, they are recognised for bringing large-scale, high-energy works to regional stages, ensuring that the visual and musical scope of traditional ballet is accessible outside of the capital. Here, the full company demonstrates their range, from disciplined group formations to expressive solo roles.

This performance takes place at the Liverpool Empire in the heart of Liverpool. With a running time of approximately 175 minutes, including intervals, it is a substantial evening of theatre that requires a commitment of nearly three hours. Because the narrative is told entirely through dance and music, there is no language barrier to consider, making it a suitable choice if you are new to ballet. There is no specific dress code for this venue, though many patrons choose smart-casual attire. We recommend allowing sufficient time for the two scheduled breaks during this long-form production.