Romeo & Juliet

We are set to experience a significant revival of Rudolf Nureyev’s choreography, set to the dramatic music of Sergei Prokofiev. This production is defined by its cinematic scale, using the full company to fill the stage with the tension and rivalry of the Verona streets. You will hear Prokofiev’s heavy, rhythmic brass and sweeping string melodies, which mirror the physical demands of the choreography. The evening is shaped by the contrast between the aggressive, percussive energy of the public scenes and the intimate, lyrical passages for the two leads. We recommend listening for how the composer uses specific motifs to represent the different families, providing a narrative map through the music even as the dancers translate the emotional stakes into movement. The sheer scale of the ensemble work ensures that the stage feels constantly alive, matching the propulsive drive of the orchestral score from the first act to the final tragedy.

English National Ballet is a cornerstone of the British dance scene, celebrated for bringing ambitious classical and neoclassical works to audiences across the country. Known for their technical precision and athletic vigour, the company frequently tours beyond their London base to major regional venues. In this production, the ensemble tackles the distinctive, high-energy style associated with Nureyev, requiring both immense physical stamina and deep theatrical commitment. The company is particularly regarded for its ability to maintain high standards of storytelling while executing complex, large-scale group sequences.

This performance takes place at the Palace Theatre in Manchester on 25 October 2026. The total running time is approximately 175 minutes, which includes intervals. Given the clear narrative of the story and the familiarity of the music, this production is well-suited if you are new to ballet or if you enjoy large-scale theatrical drama. While the venue does not enforce a specific dress code, many attendees opt for smart-casual attire. You should allow plenty of time for the full three-hour experience, as the production is an expansive telling of the source material.