Romeo & Juliet

We are preparing for a production that deviates from the ethereal, light conventions of classical ballet to focus on the visceral weight of Prokofiev’s score. The choreography by Rudolf Nureyev is known for its earthy, vigorous style, which reflects the tension of the warring families in Verona. You will hear the full company move to music that is essentially cinematic in scale, using dissonant brass and heavy percussion to ground the narrative in realism rather than fantasy. Listen for the recurring motifs that identify the young lovers, providing moments of lyricism amidst the driving, rhythmic energy of the crowd scenes. The evening is shaped by these shifts between grand, public spectacles and intimate, private tragedy. One specific moment to listen for is the famous Dance of the Knights, where the repetitive, menacing strings and brass create a sense of inevitable doom. We expect this performance to feel particularly athletic, prioritising expressive movement and dramatic storytelling over mere technical display.

English National Ballet is one of the United Kingdom’s leading touring companies, celebrated for bringing high-quality dance to a wide variety of audiences. Based in London, the ensemble is renowned for maintaining a diverse repertoire that ranges from strict classical revivals to more modern, gritty interpretations of the standard canon. They are particularly well-regarded for their technical precision and the stamina required for large-scale productions like this one. In this performance, the company works with the complex, demanding legacy of Nureyev’s choreography, which requires both classical rigour and a modern, dramatic sensibility.

This performance takes place at the London Coliseum, a historic and expansive venue in the heart of the West End. With a running time of approximately 175 minutes, this is a full-length production that includes intervals, making it a significant undertaking for an evening out. The cinematic nature of the music and the clear, dramatic storytelling make it a suitable choice if you are attending a ballet for the first time. There is no specific dress code for this venue, though many patrons choose smart-casual attire. Please note that no conductor has been named for this specific date.