Spring / Summer 2017

1 Contents

01 A message from Alistair Spalding 02 Associate Artists and Companies 03 Artists' development 04 Sadler’s Wells Theatre 14 Supporting Young Artists 25 Enjoy More of Sadler’s Wells 26 Calendar 29 How to Book 30 Planning Your Journey 36 Lilian Baylis Studio 42 London International Mime Festival 44 The Peacock 48 Family Shows 51 Sadler's Wells on Tour 52 Talks, Classes and Assisted Performances 54 Patrons' Events 55 Join us

Save 20% when you book Family Friendly two or more shows at the Performances and activities same time Available on all with this symbol are suitable shows displaying this symbol. for most ages. Age guidance Discount is automatically is given for some shows added in your online basket. where relevant. This offer is available until 31 January 2017. Assisted performances: Terms and conditions apply: Look for these symbols, sadlerswells.com/save or visit sadlerswells.com/ assistedshows New ways to save from 1 February 2017 Our ‘Save BSL Interpreted 20%’ scheme is changing, with new discounts, and new ways of obtaining the discount. Audio Described For details: AD sadlerswells.com/save Transaction charges apply This brochure is available £3 for telephone bookings, in a large print version. £1.95 for concessionary and online bookings. No charge when booking in person.

2 A message from Alistair Spalding

Welcome to our Spring/Summer 2017 In March, we are presenting Tree season. I often say that, at Sadler’s of Codes, another Sadler’s Wells Wells, our commitment is to the artist co-production. Choreographed by rather than the work. We commission, our Associate Artist Wayne McGregor produce and collaborate with the most and performed by members of his exciting dance makers working today company alongside Paris Opera and, rather than one-off backing for Ballet, this bold collaboration features a specific production, ours is a long- designs by artist Olafur Eliasson and term investment in their creative ideas a score by composer and producer and development. Jamie xx.

New Wave Associate Alexander Whitley We make a point of introducing exciting is one of the talented choreographers dance makers to our audiences we have been supporting for a number each year. Tap dance artist Michelle of years now. I am delighted that his Dorrance is the latest of these new latest work 8 Minutes, commissioned choreographic voices and makes by Sadler’s Wells, has its world her Sadler’s Wells’ debut with EDM: premiere on our main stage in June. Double Down in July. Inspired by solar science research, it is the fruit of an innovative partnership Alongside presenting new artists with video artist Tal Rosner, composer and choreography, I believe it is Daniel Wohl and space scientists from important to showcase iconic dance the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. works created within the last 20 years or so that could be defined as Among many new and returning shows ‘contemporary classics’. I believe by our Associate Artists this season International Associate Company are two remarkable works by Crystal Rosas’ Rain — which is returning to Pite ­­— one created with actor and writer our stage in June — definitely belongs Jonathon Young for her own company, to this category. Kidd Pivot, the other choreographed in 2009 for the National Ballet of Thank you for supporting our work Canada and now performed by and helping to make all of this possible. Scottish Ballet as part of a double bill. I hope to see you at Sadler’s Wells soon. We are delighted by the increasing profile and success Crystal has been enjoying in the UK and beyond since we began supporting her in 2013 — including the Outstanding Achievement in Dance award she received at the Oliviers last year for her choreography in A Picture of You Falling, The Tempest Replica Alistair Spalding CBE and Polaris at Sadler’s Wells. Artistic Director and Chief Executive

1 Associate Artists and Companies

Our Associate Artists and German choreographer’s Le DESH, Associate Artist Akram Companies are what make Sacre du Printemps (The Rite Khan’s enthralling one-man Sadler’s Wells the world’s of Spring). The programme show following a man’s journey dance house – a creative also includes William to his parents’ homeland. hub where innovative Forsythe’s seminal In the At once intimate and epic, this collaborations and bold Middle, Somewhat Elevated work is a touching and visually ideas are inspired, nurtured and Hans Van Manen’s Adagio stunning masterpiece (see and realised. Hammerklavier (see page 10). page 22).

An unmissable new As part of their 30th Find out more about the artists collaboration this season anniversary celebrations, and companies we support: is Tree of Codes, a Sadler’s our Resident Company New sadlerswells.com/artists Wells co-production created Adventures returns in April by Associate Artist Wayne with Matthew Bourne’s Early McGregor with multi award- Adventures, a mixed bill winning artist Olafur Eliasson featuring four of the inventive, and composer and producer witty and boisterous pieces Jamie xx (see page 8 for that launched Bourne’s career more information). in the 1980s (see page 11).

We hail the return of two works Also in April, Associate Artist of brilliant choreographic Crystal Pite and actor and invention performed by playwright Jonathon Young’s our International Associate moving blend of dance and Companies. In February, theatre, Betroffenheit, returns Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina following its acclaimed UK Bausch present Masurca Fogo, premiere last season (see an exuberant and humour-filled page 12). Another of Pite’s examination of life inspired by recent works, Emergence, is Bausch’s travels to Portugal performed by Scottish Ballet (see page 5). In June, Rosas in their double bill in June (see brings back to our stage Anne page 23). Teresa De Keersmaeker’s Rain. Set to Steve Reich’s Music for Sadler’s Wells’ production 18 Musicians, the piece is a rich m¡longa, Associate Artist Sidi tapestry of movement driven Larbi Cherkaoui’s exploration by patterns, precision and and personal synthesis of musicality (see page 24). traditional and contemporary tango, reaches our stage again Pina Bausch’s work is also in May as part of its ongoing featured in a triple bill by our international tour (see page 20). Associate Company English National Ballet, the only UK Finally, at the end of May we company to perform the late are delighted to welcome back

2 Behind the Scenes: Supporting Artists

Artists and dance-makers are then invited to become one of the lifeblood of Sadler’s Wells our first New Wave Associate and the theatre is at its best artists enabling him to set up when artists and companies his own company in 2014, with are making work within its regular commissioning support walls. It’s not surprising then, from Sadler’s Wells. that our support for artists to help develop their practice Alexander’s interests often is at the heart of what we do. take him beyond dance: he It ensures we can continue studied politics, philosophy to commission, produce and economics. His work and present dance of aims to expand the notion of the highest standard and choreography, particularly in is how we contribute to relation to design, architecture the continuing evolution and digital technologies. of dance as an art form. These ambitious ideas have The more formal structures led him to rapidly become for our artist development Artist Focus: a prominent new voice on the work include programmes Alexander Whitley UK’s dance scene, with recent such as National Youth Dance This season is a key moment commissions from BalletBoyz, Company, Wild Card, New for Alexander Whitley, a Rambert, Candoco and Wave Associates, Open Art talented and inquisitive Birmingham Royal Ballet. Surgery, and Summer choreographer we have University. Informal support supported since 2010, now By continuing our support and advice is interwoven creating his first production to Alexander, we want to throughout, including skills for Sadler’s Wells main stage enable his vision for dance sharing and mentoring, inspired by the latest space that deals with complex ideas. networking opportunities, and technology. See it flourish this spring on artistic and producing advice. our stage. Alexander has danced Our aim is to support artists internationally with leading See page 21 for details. in a sustained way at different companies and after stages of their career, helping a classical training was New Wave Associates them develop their creative soon drawn into the world are supported the Esmée voice and realise the full of contemporary dance, Fairbairn Foundation potential of their artistic vision. thirsty for more knowledge. This curiosity led him to apply to Sadler’s Wells Summer University, a pioneering initiative aiming to expand dance-makers' perspectives, directed by choreographer Jonathan Burrows. He was 3 Sadler’s Wells Sampled A world of dance in one night

01 Still, performed by Dickson Mbi, The Lowry, Salford and who is famed for his strength Sadler’s Wells. Supported and incredible popping style. by Arts Council England, The piece uses projection to The Movement aims to nurture transform and illuminate the talent and bring large scale fluid motion of the dancer, with dance productions to even lighting by Associate Artist wider audiences. Michael Hulls. Friday 3 & Saturday 4 February Shobana Jeyasingh Dance at 7.30pm perform an extract from their Doors open at 6pm for free reimagining of Marius Petipa’s front of house activities. La Bayadère. This version, £15, £8 ‘proms’ style standing One decade on since Sadler’s Bayadère – The Ninth Life, Schools Mat at 1pm Wells first launched Sampled, draws on the original story and £8, £4 ‘proms’ style standing the much-anticipated event the first visit of Indian dancers returns with another packed to Europe in 1838. Multibuy available on £15 weekend programme to tickets only. tempt dance novices and Northern Ballet returns aficionados alike. to perform an extract of Supported by Casanova, a new full length This year’s programme work coming to Sadler’s includes performances from Wells in May. The evening some of the most exciting is completed by Iron Skulls dance companies the world Co, the Spanish experimental has to offer. Argentinian world B-boy crew who recently champion tango dancers wowed audiences as part 01 Photo: Cameron Slater Julia Urruty and Claudio of Breakin' Convention '16, 02 Photo: Chris Nash Gonzalez return due to popular performing Sinsetia. 02 demand following stunning performances at Sampled last Accompanying the stage year. The new generation of performances are a host flamenco dancers dotdotdot of free front of house dance return to Sadler’s Wells activities ranging from following their hugely popular demystifying talks to Wild Card programme in have-a-go dance sessions May 2016. This is the perfect and video installations opportunity to sample flamenco designed to inspire and intrigue. ahead of Sadler’s Wells’ annual Flamenco Festival. Sadler’s Wells Sampled is part of The Movement, Contemporary dance is a dance producing represented by Russell partnership between Maliphant Company with Birmingham Hippodrome,

4 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch Masurca Fogo

Thursday 9 - Sunday 12 February Thu - Sat at 7.30pm Sun at 4pm The endlessly inventive genius, Pina Bausch, created Masurca Fogo, an absurd and delightful work which takes on the subject Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: of desire and the desperate, achingly human need for love, Thu treated to Bausch’s tongue-firmly-in-cheek wit. Dancers fling themselves down water slides, breathe into microphones, feed £12 - £60 watermelon to a live chicken, and cram into a crowded beach 02 hut for a party, but always with “Bausch’s sharp mudlarker’s S eye for social ritual” (The Guardian).

Set to a soundtrack that features a gloriously eclectic mix of k.d. lang, the Balanescu Quartet’s reinvention of German electronic band Kraftwerk, and traditional African and Portuguese music, Masurca Fogo is an upbeat piece of dance theatre with all of Bausch’s trademark ingenuity on display.

Photo: © Zerrin Aydin-Herwegh

5 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

6 Flamenco Festival London

Wednesday 15 - Sunday 26 February

Israel Galván FLA.CO.MEN Wed 15 & Thu 16 at 7.30pm Israel Galván likes nothing more than pushing boundaries and surprising with a know-how fed by the best Flamenco tradition. In FLA.CO.MEN, he deconstructs syntax again, cleaving the memory of his earlier pieces and captures on-the-fly figures that he charges with a new electricity. “To call Galván a brilliant dancer is like saying Einstein was pretty good at physics” Daily Express

Eva Yerbabuena Apariencias Fri 17 - Sun 19 at 7.30pm, Sat 18 at 3.30pm Flamenco superstar Eva Yerbabuena is renowned internationally as being one of Spain’s leading dancers. Accompanied by four dancers and her critically acclaimed ensemble of musicians, including African guest singer Alana Sinkëy, she delivers an unforgettable tour de force performance in her brand new show. “She has the kind of artistry that appears once in a generation, if at all” The Independent

Cía. Mercedes Ruiz Déjame que te baile Tue 21 at 7.30pm Let me dance for you – this is the caption of this night. And Mercedes Ruiz, one of the most renowned Flamenco dancers of Jerez, is being serious: her new piece is a declaration of love to the audience. In Déjame que te baile she tells her own story and glances back on her career which was marked by Flamenco early on. “Mercedes Ruiz, raised the temperature, and spoke about flamenco with a commanding truth and virtuosity” Financial Times

Gala Flamenca 2017 Juana Amaya, Olga Pericet, Jesús Carmona, Rocío Márquez Thu 23 - Sat 25 at 7.30pm, Sat 25 at 3.30pm Gala Flamenca is one of the highlights of each year’s Flamenco Festival, featuring some of the most exciting figures on the flamenco scene: the legendary Gypsy dancer Juana Amaya “is a true goddess of the dance” (ABC), Olga Pericet’s “towering presence and fierce energy” (The Guardian), virtuosic Jesús Carmona, and the shining voice of Rocío Márquez.

Cía. Manuel Liñán Reversible Sun 26 at 7.30pm Choreographer, director, and multi award-winning dancer Manuel Liñán returns to Sadler’s Wells with an emotional voyage back to the memories and instincts of childhood in Reversible. Framed by children’s games, from jump rope to dressing up, Liñán sets out to discover the core of who we are. “Liñán’s gift is transcendental. He awakens rhythms, images, wildest possibilities of dance, and banishes the predictabilities of sitting in a theatre watching carefully staged flamenco” Financial Times

£12 - £42

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Photo: © Paco Villalta

7 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Company Wayne McGregor / Paris Opera Ballet Tree of Codes

Saturday 4 - Saturday 11 March Sat - Fri at 7.30pm Sun at 4pm Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Wayne McGregor’s much No perf Mon anticipated Tree of Codes finally comes to London following huge critical acclaim at Manchester International Festival in 2015. £12 - £45 Taking inspiration from Jonathan Safran Foer’s book of the same name, which was physically carved out of the pages of another Free post-show talk: Sat 4 novel, McGregor and collaborator, award-winning musician and producer Jamie xx weave a tapestry of deconstructed form. Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Tue 15 dancers, drawn from The Paris Opera Ballet and Company Wayne McGregor explore Olafur Eliasson’s set, which mirrors S the sculptural aspects of the book, reflecting the audience’s Supported by gaze back at them as he immerses them into his strange world. The Monument Trust

The piece is co-created by Wayne McGregor, Olafur Eliasson Commissioned by Sadler’s and Jamie xx. Wells, Manchester International Festival, Park Avenue Armory, “Extraordinary. Sometimes, five stars Paris Opera Ballet, FAENA ART is not enough” and European Capital of Culture The Independent Aarhus 2017

Photo: Ravi Deepres

8 Sergei Polunin Project Polunin

Tuesday 14 - Saturday 18 March Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm Ukrainian ballet prodigy Sergei Polunin trained at The Royal Ballet School before joining The Royal Ballet, where he rapidly £12 - £60 rose through the ranks, becoming their youngest principal ever. S

After leaving in 2012, Polunin gained international stardom Programme details from his collaboration with photographer David LaChapelle, to be announced soon: performing to Hozier’s Take Me to Church, and featuring sadlerswells.com in the biographical film Dancer.

Drawing together world-class artists for this brand new production, Project Polunin aims to challenge perceptions of dance through live performance, and act as a catalyst for a new generation to explore what the future may hold.

“Without question, the most naturally gifted male ballet dancer of his generation” The Observer

Photo: © David LaChapelle

9 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

English National Ballet Pina Bausch / William Forsythe / Hans van Manen

Thursday 23 March - Saturday 1 April Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sun at 4pm Sadler’s Wells Associate Company English National Ballet No perf Mon is back with another triple bill of masterpieces from the 20th century. £12 - £55

26 dancers confront each other on a stage covered in soil Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: in Pina Bausch’s Le Sacre Du Printemps (The Rite of Spring). Thu 23 Not seen in the UK since 2008, English National Ballet is the first UK company to be allowed to perform this iconic work. S

William Forsythe famously changed ballet forever with In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated, allowing the dancers to show off their technical expertise and physical prowess.

Hans van Manen’s austere and lyrical Adagio Hammerklavier is set to Beethoven’s pensive piano Sonata No 29, Op 106, performed by three couples.

Photo: Ulli Weiss. Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch performing Le Sacre du Printemps © Pina Bausch Foundation

10 New Adventures Matthew Bourne’s Early Adventures

Monday 3 - Saturday 8 April Mon - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm Matthew Bourne returns to his roots for his company’s 30th anniversary, featuring a programme of fun and witty pieces £12 - £45 that launched his career, with designs by long-time collaborator Lez Brotherston. Age guidance 12+ Contains some adult humour Four mail-order-underwear models parody Perrot’s Pas S De Quatre in Spitfire. Programme varies. Yearning pas de deuxs and pastoral clog-dances feature For details: sadlerswells.com in Town and Country’s post-war vignettes.

Take a trip to Gay Paree with The Infernal Gallop, as all the glorious clichés of 30s and 40s Paris are paraded (and can-canned) across the stage.

And return to childhood with Watch with Mother, inspired by Joyce Grenfell’s Nursery School sketches.

“A rare treat. Bourne’s wit and flair are in full play” Sunday Times

Photo: Roy Tan

11 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Crystal Pite and Jonathon Young Betroffenheit

Tuesday 11 & Wednesday 12 April Tue & Wed at 7.30pm

Tragedy is laid bare on the stage in the critically acclaimed £12 - £27 Betroffenheit – a word which describes the overwhelming feeling of shock and torment in the wake of disaster. Pre-show Director’s Conversation: Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Crystal Pite and actor- Wed at 6pm playwright Jonathon Young join forces to examine £4 the aftermath of Young’s personal tragedy, exploring what happens to a person after experiencing the S all-too imaginable, and creating an “inspiring dance Supported by theatre hybrid” (The Observer) stark with unflinching honesty. The Monument Trust

Choreographed to the rhythm of Young’s words, the trauma of loss and the long road to recovery are uncovered through comedy and drama, poetry and movement.

The piece is co-created by Kidd Pivot and Electric Company Theatre.

“Raw and riveting” The Guardian

Photo: Wendy D

12 Breakin’ Convention ‘17 International Festival of Hip Hop Dance Theatre

Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 April Sat & Sun at 6pm Doors open at 4pm Breakin’ Convention, the world’s biggest festival of hip hop dance, is back at Sadler’s Wells for its 14th year running. £24 seated £15 standing Curated and hosted by UK hip hop pioneer Jonzi D, this is an awe inspiring weekend of exceptional performances, Both shows are from world champion B-boy crews to cutting edge street co-compered dance companies, showcasing the best from around the by a BSL-interpreter world and around the corner. S There’s too much going on to be contained on stage. Find dance Under 5s admitted workshops, graffiti, DJs and freestyle sessions spilling out all FF over the building. It’s an unforgettable experience for all the family.

“It’s a platform for big personalities and amazing moves” The Independent

Photo: Paul Hampartsoumian

13 In 2013, Sadler’s Wells gained For their world premiere Supporting the chance to run the first ever performance in 2017, the Young Artists National Youth Dance Company. company will be working with The company aims to draw choreographer Damien Jalet. together the brightest dance The French/Belgian talent from across England to choreographer has created create and perform innovative work with leading lights in the dance, working with Sadler’s creative industries including Wells’ internationally renowned performance artist Marina Associate Artists and visiting Abramović and fashion companies. It is a diverse designer Hussein Chalayan. and inclusive company that He is known for his work with Sadler’s Wells is deeply encourages dancers from a Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist passionate about developing range of social backgrounds, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, whose dance and ensuring that styles and experiences. joint choreography landed young people who want them an Olivier Award for to become dancers and their production Babel “This show is about the next choreographers are given (words) in 2011. generation of dancers. Judging every opportunity to thrive. by their dedication and the For this reason, it has supported This brand new commission will intensity of this performance, and created several opportunities see Jalet and the 40-strong they are skilful, strong and and initiatives for young . Rachel company of dancers create a ready for anything” people to excel and learn. Ward, The Telegraph, on Frame[d] unique piece of dance theatre

01

14 which addresses themes 03 of melancholia, ritual, control and abandon. Jalet’s revered choreographic style combined with the young dancers’ energy and raw talent will produce a mesmerising experience that shifts the consciousness of the audience.

Following the success of the first ever BBC Young Dancer, the Grand Final returns to Sadler's Wells. The winners of the four categories: ballet, contemporary, South Asian dance and street dance, together with at least one wildcard, will dance in front of a panel of judges including Marc Brew, Kevin O'Hare, Kate to young hip hop performers professional hip hop artists Prince, Nahid Siddiqui, through its international including Breakin’ Convention’s Kenneth Tharp and Jasmin festival of hip hop dance Artistic Director and UK hip Vardimon. Each finalist theatre Breakin’ Convention. hop legend Jonzi D. The week will perform three pieces, Every year, the festival offers long project is run in half including new work made 13 to 16 year olds the chance term and culminates in by some of the best emerging to star in their own music video a public screening, with choreographers. in a workshop programme the films then uploaded to called Future Elements. Breakin’ Convention’s YouTube The Grand Final of BBC Young The project offers aspiring channel, BCTV. Dancer 2017 will be broadcast young dancers, film makers, live on BBC Two. MCs, aerosol artists, music To hear more about our producers, costume designers opportunities for young people, Sadler’s Wells also offers and set designers the chance follow on Twitter development opportunities to work with inspirational @SadlersLearning and Breakin’ Convention @bconvention 02 National Youth Dance Company Wednesday 19 April £12 (£6 concs)*

BBC YOUNG DANCER Saturday 22 April Full booking information: sadlerswells.com

* Concessions available for Access members, students, under 18s and over 60s

01 NYDC Vertical Road Photo: Tony Nandi 02 Connor Scott, Winner of BBC Young Dancer 2015 03 NYDC In Between Photo : Tony Nandi

15 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

James Thierrée / Compagnie du Hanneton The Toad Knew

Wednesday 3 - Sunday 7 May Wed - Sat at 7.30pm Sun at 4pm Step into the beautifully weird world of multi-talented performer and director James Thierrée. £12 - £38

Following Tabac Rouge in 2014, Thierrée returns with his latest Free post-show talk: Thu 4 critically acclaimed creation, featuring a seamless mix of mechanical marvels, music, surreal humour and acrobatic finesse. Sun at 4pm Touch Tour at 2pm Six characters emerge in a strange fairy-tale lair. A woman S transforms into a lizard, a piano plays itself, and plates magically appear and disappear. In the middle of it all Thierrée works his Supported by magic with the aid of a squat servant, only to have it undone The Monument Trust by a man beast, and aerialist Thi Mai Nguyen and contortionist Valérie Doucet spin their tricks.

“A spellbinding mix of ravishing visuals, seductive music and breathtaking acrobatics” The Guardian

Photo: Richard Haughton

16 Northern Ballet Casanova

Tuesday 9 - Saturday 13 May Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Thu & Sat at 2.30pm After a string of sell-out successes, including the South Bank Sky Arts Dance Award winning 1984, Northern Ballet returns £12 - £45 with the sensational true story of the notorious lover Casanova. Steeped in 18th century decadence, Kenneth Tindall’s first full- Sat at 2.30pm length ballet is a riot of intrigue and seduction. Insight workshop at 12pm Touch Tour at 12.45pm Based on playwright and author Ian Kelly’s 2008 biography of Casanova, Northern Ballet unmasks the man who still manages Age guidance: 12+ to thrill us today. S With a custom score from Kerry Muzzey, played live by Northern Ballet Sinfonia, and designs from the Tony and Olivier award winning Christopher Oram, prepare to be led into temptation.

“Be the flame, not the moth” Giacomo Casanova

Photo: Guy Farrow

17 dark, to a place where dance In Focus: Boris Charmatz does not usually dare go. Six dancers are moved by a palpable sense of urgency: French dancer, choreographer Sadler’s Wells first presented what are they doing there? and agitateur Boris Charmatz the work of Boris Charmatz They seem to have a lot holds a special place in the in 2014 with enfant, an to say, as text comes out of development of contemporary endearing yet disturbing piece them fast. Made after the Paris dance today. Ballet trained with a large cast of children terrorist attacks of 2015, this at The Paris Opera and an who were carried by cranes new work meshes with the city accomplished dancer, he soon in a spectacular visual itself. Like playing truant after decided to take a different set-up questioning hours when we should be path, creating his own projects our relationship to children. safely at home, this is an and then starting the ground- invitation to not play it safe. breaking Musée de la danse In 2015, we presented two in 2009. Charmatz re-framed of Charmatz’s works in danse de nuit, the concept of a national collaboration with Tate Modern. Wed 17 - Sat 20 May at 9.30pm choreographic centre into Aatt enen tionon saw three a new type of dance museum dancers on a three-level Location to be announced that would host, initiate and podium inviting, quite literally, invite a new relationship a different perspective. £20 (£15 concs) to dance, to the audience That same year manger had and to theatre. dancers eating rice paper For full information: in an extended ritual of sadlerswells.com/ His work is remarkable singing, eating and dancing borischarmatz in its clever disregard of which was both bewildering expectations, inviting us and strangely watchable. Supported by to deal with the complexities The Monument Trust of our human experience This spring we go with him in unexpected ways. to the edge of the city, after © Louis Theillier

18 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Rambert Ghost Dances and other works

Tuesday 16 - Saturday 20 May Tue - Sat at 7.30pm S £12 - £40 One of Rambert’s most celebrated works returns to Sadler’s Wells for the first time in 14 years. Ghost dancers stalk the stage in Sat Mat at 2.30pm Christopher Bruce’s masterpiece, created as a tribute to victims A shorter programme, with of oppression in South America. Day of the Dead celebrations a special introduction and Latin American folk music drive dances full of joy, sadness £8 - £20 and compassion. Family ticket for Sat Mat: £40 Also in this triple bill, Didy Veldman reveals the tale of passion (Four tickets incl at least and betrayal behind one of Picasso’s greatest paintings in The one under 16) 3 Dancers. Sign language interpreted A new work by Aletta Collins to Arturo Márquez’s pulsating show: Wed Danzones completes a programme of Latin-flavoured live music Free pre-show talks: and virtuoso dancing. with Artistic Director Mark Baldwin: Wed at 6.30pm with Music Director Paul Hoskins: Fri at 6.30pm

Schools Mat: Thu at 1.30pm

Photo: © Anthony Crickmay 19 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui m¡longa

Monday 22 – Wednesday 24 May Mon - Wed at 7.30pm

Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui’s interpretation of tango returns to Sadler’s £12 - £38 Wells after its triumphant debut in 2013 and a world tour. Inspired by the late night milonga scene found in the intimate Free post-show dance class: bars of Buenos Aires, Associate Artist Cherkaoui unites Tue tango and contemporary dancers with live musicians in a unique collaboration which adds a contemporary twist Dance Consortium presents to the Argentinian dance known for its seductive powers. a Sadler’s Wells production

S With an incredibly talented cast of 17 performers, including an onstage band, m¡longa plays with the art form, making Supported by for a seductive and fascinating exploration of tango for the The Monument Trust 21st century.

“A very beautiful show indeed” The Daily Telegraph

Photo: Tristram Kenton

20 Alexander Whitley Dance Company 8 Minutes

WORLD PREMIERE Tuesday 27 & Wednesday 28 June Tue & Wed at 7.30pm

Following on from his innovative digital work Pattern Recognition, £20 Sadler’s Wells New Wave Associate Alexander Whitley takes on the breathtaking scale of space for his company’s main Post-show talk: Tue stage debut. Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Working in partnership with the scientists from STFC RAL Space Tue at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, 8 Minutes draws inspiration from the images and data of solar science research to explore S

the spectacular forces at work in the universe and illuminate Supported by our relationship with the star that gives us life. The Monument Trust With a specially created score by the electroacoustic music Sadler’s Wells New Wave innovator Daniel Wohl and an installation of high-definition Associates programme is imagery from visual artist Tal Rosner, 8 Minutes creates supported by the Esmée a striking, immersive environment of dance, music and film. Fairbairn Foundation

“A mercurial imagination” The Financial Times on Pattern Recognition

Photo: Johan Persson, design Joe Walkling

21 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Akram Khan Company DESH

Wednesday 31 May - Saturday 3 June Wed - Sat at 7.30pm

In a much anticipated return, Akram Khan performs in his hugely £12 - £45 popular tale of home and heritage, which first opened in 2011 to unanimous praise from the critics. Sat at 7.30pm Touch Tour at 6pm Inspired by his parents’ birthplace, DESH (Bengali for ‘homeland’) weaves together stories that span both Britain and Bangladesh S to create a surreal world of myth and memory. Supported by The Monument Trust To create this very personal solo piece, Khan brought together a team of collaborators of extraordinary proportions, joining forces with Oscar-winning visual artist Tim Yip, Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist and award-winning lighting designer Michael Hulls, Olivier Award-winning composer Jocelyn Pook, writer and poet Karthika Naïr, and slam poet PolarBear.

“His best show yet: poignant, thrilling, magical, moving and utterly transfixing” The Daily Telegraph

Photo: © Richard Haughton

22 Scottish Ballet MC 14/22 (Ceci est mon corps) / Emergence

Wednesday 7 - Saturday 10 June Wed - Sat at 7.30pm

Scotland’s national ballet company returns with a double £12 - £44 bill of two radically different, but equally powerful works. Sadler’s Wells Patrons’ Event: Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Crystal Pite “one of the world’s Wed most vital dance-makers” (The Times) transforms the 38-strong corps de ballet into a swarming horde of insects for Emergence Free pre and post-show talks: – a journey into a subterranean hive where classical ballet Fri transforms into strange insect-like behaviour. Age guidance: 16+ Angelin Preljocaj’s MC 14/22 (Ceci est mon corps) is a hymn to the male body. Preljocaj evokes biblical imagery through S the 12 male dancers who surrender to both tender care and wretched cruelty in this glorification of masculinity.

“Scottish Ballet has reached new heights with this double bill” The Stage

Photo: Andy Ross

23 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker / Rosas Rain

Tuesday 13 & Wednesday 14 June Tue & Wed at 7.30pm

Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker’s world-renowned company £20 Rosas returns as part of our contemporary classics series, S with her iconic piece, Rain. Supported by Known for her appreciation of mathematical structure and the The Monument Trust geometric use of space, De Keersmaeker pushes these concepts to their limits to form a deceptively simple piece, using layers repetition and variation. Each of the 10 dancers plays a distinct role in their close group, before giving in to the power of the collective with an exuberant and playful camaraderie.

Set to Steve Reich’s masterpiece, the minimalist Music for 18 Musicians, which is inspired by breath rhythms.

“Simply to watch the collective patterns set in motion by the dancers is entrancing” The Guardian

Photo: Anne Van Aerschot

24 Enjoy More of Sadler’s Wells

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Sadler’s Wells and Sign up for our e-bulletins The Peacock Bars for the latest news, listings To make the most of your and more: sadlerswells.com/ interval, pre-order your drinks register at any bar. Choose from wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks, Follow us on social media for and also sandwiches, snacks, exclusive content including tea and coffee. Bars open one news, reviews, behind the hour before the performance. scenes photos and videos:

Fox Garden Court Café Sadlers_Wells Enjoy fresh salads, hot and cold dishes, drinks and cakes cooked in our kitchen. Open sadlerswells from 8.30am until 7.30pm on performance days, and during intervals for Lilian Enjoy 100s of exclusive videos, Baylis Studio performances. including artist profiles, show trailers, 60 second guides, and Venue hire more on our YouTube channel: Whether you are hosting a private or corporate event, youtube.com/sadlerswells Sadler’s Wells offers a magical venue that will inspire and impress. For more information, Discover our blogs, contact our Events team for breaking news at [email protected] on our productions or 020 7863 8065. in the UK and overseas: blog.sadlerswells.com sadlerswellsontour.com

25 How to Book Members Booking Concessions

Online at sadlerswells.com For those who are pressed for Disabled Persons: time, or who have a preferred For members of our Access Telephone 020 7863 8000 seat location, we recommend Scheme a limited number of joining our Membership half-price seats are available. In Person: schemes. These schemes For more information, visit Sadler’s Wells Ticket Office, support the organisation sadlerswells.com/access Rosebery Avenue, and enable us to present, London, EC1: commission, produce and tour Students, unwaged, over 65s*: 10am - 8pm, Monday – Saturday. more of the best dance from A limited number of £8 seats in across the world. Sadler’s Wells rear 2nd circle or The Peacock Peacock Theatre rear stalls for Peacock Theatre, Rehearsal Members most performances. Tickets will Portugal Street, Avoid the phone queues via the be held at Ticket Office. Proof London, WC2: Members Booking Line. of eligibility must be shown, Please call 020 7863 8222 otherwise the full price will be for specific opening times. Patrons charged. A maximum of 2 tickets Access the best seats for per person, per event. Transaction Charge: £3 otherwise sold out shows for telephone bookings, £1.95 through a dedicated booking Standby tickets*: for concessionary and online service. To become a Rehearsal From £17.50 to £25 for students, bookings. No charge when Member or Patron, visit page 52 unwaged people, BECTU, MU booking in person. of this brochure or sadlerswells. and Equity cardholders, under com/support-us 16s and over 65s. Cash or card Print your tickets at home payment only. Available in Show tickets booked online Sadler's Wells is fortunate to person only from 1 hour before can now be printed at home have a community of individual the performance. 1 ticket per for your convenience. Choose supporters whose donations person, requires proof of status. ‘print at home’ option when support our work both on stage purchasing tickets. and off. Their generosity enables us to produce and present more *Not available online All discounts are subject to availability Under 5s: Please note, children of the dance they love. and cannot be used retrospectively or under the age of 5 are not in conjunction with any other offers or permitted into performances concessions. Discounts do not apply unless indicated on the show How to Save to Lilian Baylis Studio unless indicated. information pages. Further age limits may apply on certain Save 20% when you book two shows, please check with Ticket or more shows at the same time. Office. For more information: Available on all shows displaying sadlerswells.com/under5s this symbol. Discount is automatically added in your Exchanges: Tickets may online basket. This offer is be exchanged to future available until 31 January 2017. performances or a credit note Terms and conditions apply: issued in lieu (valid for two years sadlerswells.com/save from the date of issue) if returned at least 24 hours before the scheduled performance time. A £2 per ticket booking Groups amendment fee applies For adult groups of 8 or more*: (maximum £6 per booking). 20% off stalls seats, must be Refunds are not permitted booked at the same time. (May except where the performance exclude Fri and Sat evening has been cancelled. For more performances. Some shows information, and full terms and may be subject to different conditions, visit: group rates). For more details, sadlerswells.com/terms. including exchanges policy: sadlerswells.com/groups

Schools and college groups of 10+*: £12 rear stalls seats, 1 teacher free per 10 pupils, at Schools Discount Performances Under 18s only.

sadlerswells.com/schoolvisits

29 Planning Your Journey

Sadler’s Wells SW Map_Pantone_red.pdf 1 18/02/2015Access 18:07

Bus When attending performances P 19, 38 & 341 stop outside 24hr at Sadler’s Wells or Lilian Baylis Towards Angel Sadler’s Wells. King’s Cross Studio, a private wide bay car Upper Street Pentonville Road Claremont Square City Road park is available for patrons C Amwell Street with disabilities (free), or over Tube Chadwell St. M Angel (Northern Line) Sadler’s 65s (£5). Book in advance

Y Car Park Wells Goswell Road Arlington Way Arlington is 5 mins walk. Farringdon Road at Ticket Office. St. John Street CM Hardwick St. Bike MY Both Sadler’s Wells and CY P Bike stands near to the Mount Pleasant 24hr The Peacock have a number Post Office Rosebery Avenue CMY theatre. Santander cycle Clerkenwell Road of wheelchair spaces. K hire on Arlington Way. Theobald’s Road For more information and to watch our access film: High Holborn sadlerswells.com/access

Booking is available by minicom/textphone (020 7863 8015) for people The Peacock Peacock Map-Pantone_purple.pdf 1 13/11/2015 15:06 with hearing impairments.

Bus Southampton Row Kingsway, High Holborn, sadlerswells.com supports BrowseAloud navigation Aldwych, The Strand. Theobald’s Road

Bike Bike stands available outside High Holborn Bloomsbury Way the theatre. Santander cycle New Oxford Street Holborn hire available on Sardinia P P Lincoln’s Inn Fields High Holborn 24hr St & Kingsway. Kingsway Parker St.

Gt. Queen St. Peacock Tube Drury Lane Theatre Holborn (Central/Piccadilly Portugal Street

ch Lines) is 5 mins walk. Long Acre wy Covent Garden ld Temple (Circle/District Lines) A Strand is 10 mins walk. Temple

See sadlerswells.com/travel or tfl.gov.uk

30 Richard Alston Dance Company Tangent / Chacony / Gypsy Mixture

Friday 16 & Saturday 17 June Fri & Sat at 7.30pm

Richard Alston’s newest creation comes to Sadler’s Wells as part £12 - £38 of a triple bill. Chacony is inspired by the richness and nobility of Henry Purcell’s slow and weighty Baroque Chaconne, and Britten’s S tribute to it. This extraordinary music will be played by an onstage string quartet.

Martin Lawrance’s Tangent intertwines four couples as they attack the tango, accompanied by Piazzolla Estaciones Porteños, played live by Jason Ridgway on piano.

Alston’s hugely popular Gypsy Mixture, revived for the first time in a decade, brings with it a 21st century take on traditional Balkan folk music.

“Alston’s versatile, athletic company are a knockout” Sunday Times

Photo: Chris Nash

31 Elixir Festival 2017 A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

In its inaugural year, the festival Bannerman, Brian Bertscher, “The Elixir Festival celebrates provided 2,500 people with Anne Donnelly, Linda Gibbs, not just older dancers, the opportunity to experience Lizie Saunderson, Betsy but dancers moving well older people dancing live Gregory, Geraldine Morris, into their seventies and and saw 500 older performers Namron and Kenneth Tharp, eighties. It challenges all our grace its stages. In KnowBody, who will perform a new piece. preconceptions about what internationally renowned older dancers should look like and artists came together to The main stage production asks us to examine movement perform new commissions will be complemented by in new ways, to open our eyes and existing work before only a performance programme and hearts to different pulses performed by younger dancers. in the Lilian Baylis Studio and inflections in dance itself.” Daily Telegraph which will feature work by For its return in 2017, the older dancers from across Established in 2014, The Elixir festival will once again present the UK and abroad, reflecting Festival is a unique celebration KnowBody II on Sadler’s Wells’ the diversity of approach and of lifelong creativity and the main stage, featuring responding to the fast-growing contribution of older artists. performances by Mats Ek and interest in performance It was set up to recognise the Ana Laguna along with new work for mature artists. contribution that older artists commissions performed by There will also be an Art of make, challenge assumptions Dominique and Thusnelda Age Conference, with artists about what older people Mercy and Nahid Siddiqui. and leaders in culture, health can and want to do, throw It will also see the much and performance research. a spotlight on the diversity anticipated return of the This year’s festival is part of dance practice and raise group of former professional of DANCE ON, PASS ON, questions about what is next dancers who performed DREAM ON, which is supported for the art form. The Elders Project: Christopher by Creative Europe.

“It’s an excellent initiative, which should serve to show the wider audience what older people can do, to change the perception of older people” Elixir Participant, 2014

To find out more about the festival and to see the full line up of events, please visit sadlerswells.com/elixir17

Supported by The Baring Foundation

KnowBody Photo: Tony Nandi

32 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Alain Platel - les ballets C de la B nicht schlafen

Friday 30 June & Saturday 1 July Fri & Sat at 7.30pm

The unclassifiable Alain Platel returns with nine dancers from £20 his critically acclaimed contemporary ensemble les ballets C de la B, for the dark and moving nicht schlafen. Inspired by S the music of Gustav Mahler and the time the composer lived in, Platel draws parallels between the music and the troubled early years of the 20th century in Europe.

Platel’s regular collaborator, Steven Prengels, uses African polyphonic chants, cowbells and the sounds of sleeping animals to create a surprising soundscape, and visual artist Berlinde De Bruyckere sculpts the startling image of the bodies of dead horses, piled up in a jumbled heap. This is a dance of life and death.

“One of the most influential dance theatre companies in the world” The Guardian

Photo: Chris Van der Burght

33 Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Sisters Grimm Voices of the Amazon

Tuesday 4 - Saturday 8 July Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm Following the Grammy Award nominated success of INALA, a Zulu ballet performed with Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Sisters Grimm £12 - £38 return with the tale of a water spirit from the Amazon River, who ventures deep into the rainforest in search of a cure for her dying S sister. She soon finds that the forest is not as abundant as it was.

Award-winning American choreographer Helen Pickett, who has worked with the likes of Scottish Ballet and Royal Ballet of Flanders, fuses ballet, contemporary dance and capoeira with a lush musical score born of a collaboration with Brazilian songwriters and world-renowned percussionists, Olodum.

“A show that enchants as much as it impresses” The Telegraph on INALA

Photo: Giulietta Verdon-Roe

34 Dorrance Dance ETM: Double Down

Wednesday 12 - Saturday 15 July Wed - Sat at 7.30pm

Michelle Dorrance brings tap into the age of electronic music £12 - £45 with collaborator Nicholas Van Young. Tap has always been a way of talking to the stage, now with Van Young’s electronic S tap boards, the stage is able to talk back, as every step, swipe, and scrape sets off an element of sound, building musical loops, turning the stage into a musical instrument in its own right.

With Afro-Brazilian, indie-pop, and even a bit of Adele triggered by the eight dancers’ fabulous footwork, ETM: Double Down takes the first American dance form to a new level.

“A fresh and innovative show” New York Times

Photo: Hayim Heron

35 Lilian Baylis Studio Back to Baylis

If you have been to Sadler’s The echoes of early feminism Marc Brew and Stopgap Wells before you’ll know from Baylis have endured will return to the studio the name Lilian Baylis. The too, with Nora's distinctive with two new works, and formidable 1930s producer female perspective and while Adam Linder is no now shares her name with our an evening of female warriors stranger to London, there 200 seat studio, as testimony in Ella Mesma’s Wild Card is a rare chance to see his to her incredible legacy. — a series which gives artists provocative stage work She was the driving force the chance to curate their in AUTO FICTO REFLEXO. behind The Old Vic, and own evening. Before that, together with Ninette de the first Wild Card of the Challenging ideas about dance Valois, Baylis enabled the season is curated by Dan Daw, as well as society, this season creation of The Royal Ballet, who will question our usual would no doubt make Lilian English National Opera and value hierarchies. Baylis proud. Come and find Birmingham Royal Ballet. out for yourself. She was driven by social When the now acclaimed values, a desire to make Akram Khan delved into his The Enormous Room, Silk theatre accessible and own identity with seminal Road, Voodoo and Nora invites enable women to take the lead. productions such as zero Aggiss, Burrows, Fargion and degrees he inspired Tanguy, are co-commissioned This political conscience a new generation of artists by Sadler’s Wells. at the heart of her vision still to follow their own paths. rings true today. The work This season Jose Agudo For the latest production presented in the studio asks launches his new company, listings: sadlerswells.com/ strong questions and opens and Aakash Odedra presents lilianbaylisstudio up space to reassess what a double bill of solo works. matters today. A newcomer to London For some artists, this emphasis is ŻfinMalta, the national is the core of their work. Project company of Malta, led by O overtly puts the female body the remarkable Mavin Khoo, and the experience of race who will be giving a much at the forefront of Voodoo, awaited performance himself. while with Shubbak Festival, we introduce to London the work of Mithkal Alzgair, a Syrian refugee dancer in France with a programme titled Displacement.

36 Lilian Baylis Studio

ŻfinMalta Dance Stopgap Dance Aakash Odedra Ensemble Company Company From home with love: The Enormous Room Echoes and I Imagine a double bill of new work Thursday 9 & Friday 10 Thursday 2 & Friday 3 Thursday 9 & Friday 10 February March March

Thu & Fri at 8pm Thu & Fri at 8pm Thu & Fri at 8pm £17 £17 ( £8.50 concs)* £17 Free post-show talk: Thu Free post-show talk: Thu Free post-show talk: Thu

The national company of Malta Stopgap Dance Company Aakash Odedra loves to tell comes to the UK for the first creates exhilarating dance stories. In this programme, time. Led by international productions with disabled he does so with two contrasting dance artist Mavin Khoo, who and non-disabled dancers. solos in an evening of has collaborated and danced After a string of sell-out theatre and Kathak dance. with choreographers including successes they return with Choreographed by Kathak Akram Khan and Wayne a new work. Featuring the icon Aditi Mangaldas, Echoes McGregor, they seduce us with acclaimed disabled dancer is a feast for the eyes, inviting Kick the Bucket, an intricate David Toole and depicted us to consider our relationship duet by choreographer through a David Lynch-esque with our ancestors. In I Imagine, Iván Pérez, and then ask us filmic style, The Enormous Aakash delves into comedy who we are in the theatrical Room portrays a relationship and theatre in a playful satire Home. between a father and a collaboration with award- daughter who are trying to winning poet Sabrina Mahfouz. “Extremely well deal with grief. balanced and “Aakash Odera elegant to watch” is a beautiful dancer” Times of Malta The Guardian

Photo: Darrin Zammit Lupi * Concessions available for Access 37 members, students, under 18s and over 60s Lilian Baylis Studio

Adam Linder Wild Card: Dan Daw AUTO FICTO REFLEXO

Wednesday 15 - Friday 17 March Thursday 30 & Friday 31 March

UK PREMIERE Thu at 8pm Wed - Fri at 8pm Fri at 8pm £17 £17 Free post-show talk: Wed Wild Card is a chance to see work by a new AUTO FICTO REFLEXO is a sophisticated duet generation of dance makers curating a series playing with the conventions of communication of special evenings. through text, movement and sound. Formats like the press release become generators Dance maker and performer Dan Daw is of a multi-layered dance, drawing from social interested in collaboration and the potential dances and mundane movements such for dance to transcend expectations. Dan’s as paddy-cake. Adam Linder originally from approach supports that both ‘success’ and Australia, has worked with Michael Clark and ‘failure’ are equally fascinating. Alongside other The Royal Ballet and makes work for the stage artists, Dan performs the UK premiere of ON and for visual art spaces. ONE CONDITION, a stripped back, affecting solo by Graham Adey, looking at struggle, “Linder’s abstractions tend to belonging, comfort, need and home. be sexy and mysteriously meta’’ LA Weekly “On One Condition etches itself into the consciousness through its artistic power” Dance Magazine Sweden Photo: Sarah Bonn

38 Marc Brew Company Agudo Dance Company BREWBAND Silk Road

Tuesday 25 April Thursday 4 & Friday 5 May

Tue at 8pm WORLD PREMIERE £17 (£8.50 concs)* Thu & Fri at 8pm £17 BREWBAND, Scotland’s new super band, Free post-show talk: Thu blurs boundaries and challenges people’s perceptions of identity. Seasoned performer and choreographer Jose Agudo, who has worked with Shobana Created by award-winning disabled Jeyasingh and Akram Khan, launches choreographer Marc Brew, this inclusive his company with an evening of specially show brings together top Scottish rock artists commissioned works. Silk Road is both a Graeme Smillie, Jill O’Sullivan and Peter Kelly universal and a personal story of East meets with talented dancers and musicians Martyn West in the 21st century. In collaboration with Garside, Marta Masiero and Alice Sheppard the renowned classical Indian dancer Mavin for a promenade style show which is as much Khoo, Agudo weaves his flamenco roots with music gig as dance performance. a unique, contemporary style.

“Bursting with exciting “An eclectic mix of influences choreography” that is bearing fruit in The Scotsman on Exalt the style of their own work” The Metro

*Concessions available for Access members, students, under 18s and over 60s

39 Lilian Baylis Studio

Project O Nora Voodoo Nora invites Aggiss, Burrows, Fargion and Tanguy

Friday 12 May Thursday 1 & Friday 2 June

UK PREMIERE Thu & Fri at 8pm In their latest work, the thought-provoking £17 duo Project O revisit how dance can explore, Contains some strong language heal and challenge the violence and oppression Free post-show talk: Thu that haunts our society. In a clash of tongues, colours, continents and histories, two Dancers Eleanor Sikorski and Flora Wellesley brown women dance away from the Wesley, AKA Nora, return with their bold desire for assimilation, mapping the programme of duets by renowned choreographers gaps in unwritten histories. Jonathan Burrows and Matteo Fargion, Simon Tanguy and Liz Aggiss. Eleanor And Flora Music Voodoo is an 8 hour durational work overflows with free-ranging, rhythmical dancing in 2 hour sequences. whilst Digging slips between road trips, plant biology and sexual desire, and BLOODY NORA! Tickets will be on sale in January 2017. concludes with a riot of hormones. To register interest: sadlerswells.com “They are intellectually curious, “The ghost of past persecution, funny and rude, possessed present realities and future of chameleon stage talents possibilities” and a taste for risk” Total Theatre The Guardian

Photo: Katarzyna Perlak 40 Image: Jack Barraclough Photo: Camilla Greenwell Wild Card: Ella Mesma Shubbak Guerreras Mithkal Alzghair Displacement

Thursday 8 June Thursday 6 & Friday 7 July

Thu at 8pm UK PREMIERE £17 Tues & Fri at 8pm £17 Wild Card is a chance to see work by a new Free post-show talk: Thu generation of dance makers curating a series of special evenings. Sadler’s Wells partners with Shubbak, London’s largest biennial festival of At the crossroads of hip hop, latin and theatre, contemporary Arab culture, to introduce the multi-faceted dancer and choreographer the poignant work of Syrian dancer and Ella Mesma curates Guerreras ('Female warriors' choreographer Mithkal Alzghair. In a double in Spanish), an evening focusing on the female bill evening, he draws attention to the human perspective and the tempestuous history of being amidst the complexities of migration the latin dance style, rumba. Guest artists will and war. Deconstructing Syrian traditional perform alongside extracts from Mesma’s dances, he brings to the surface the paradox latest production Ladylike. of a deeply rooted culture and its current experience of displacement. “Unabashedly emotional” The Guardian on Ella Mesma Company “This solo isn’t a documentary on the Syrian war. It touches on the fundamental question of what it is to be human” Mouvement

Photo: Nicola Hunter Photo: © Mithkal Alzghair 41 The Lilian Baylis Studio — London International Mime Festival

Mossoux Bonté Joli Vyann Whispers Imbalance

Thursday 12 - Saturday 14 January Monday 16 - Thursday 19 January

Thu - Sat at 8pm Mon - Thu at 8pm £20 (£12 concs*) £20 (£12 concs)* Free post-show talk: Fri Free post-show talk: Wed Age guidance: 16+ Age guidance: 8+

Inspired by an image from a Vermeer Joli Vyann works in the space between circus and painting, the award-winning Belgian dance- dance, fusing acrobalance and contemporary dance. theatre company, Mossoux Bonté unearths a disconcerting world filled with muffled A hit at the Edinburgh Fringe, Imbalance sounds and restless phantoms. choreographer Jonathan Lunn turns the glowing screens in our hands around to spotlight our Ambiguity and doubt take over as a woman, obsessive relationship with technology. alone and shrouded in shadows, suffers With sound design by Dougie Evans, performers under the controlling influence of mysterious Jan Patzke and Olivia Quayle fight to keep their forces… or is she the one responsible for balance in a world of pokes and push notifications. these disquieting surroundings? Perhaps she’s not even alone… "Pushes aside the boundaries between acrobatics and dance" "Mossoux knows how to generate The Guardian wonder and stupefaction" *Concessions available for Over 65s, Under 16s, Danser Students and Unwaged *Concessions available for Over 65s, Students and Unwaged

42 Photo: © Mikha Wajnrych Photo: © MovingProductions Photography The Peacock — London International Mime Festival

Joli Vyann Gandini Juggling Familie Flöz Imbalance Smashed: Special Edition Teatro Delusio

Monday 9 & Tuesday 10 January Thursday 12 - Sunday 15 January

Mon & Tue at 7.30pm Thu - Sat at 7.30pm Free post-show talk: Mon Sun at 2.30pm £15 - £29 Free post-show talk: Thu Age guidance: 7+ £15 - £29 Age guidance: 7+ The forbidden fruit gets its comeuppance in Gandini Juggling’s cult hit Smashed. Sneak a glimpse of the real drama going In this special edition, 17 performers disrupt on backstage as three stagehands at the constellations of flying fruit and celebrate an Italian opera house are brought to life the ‘drop’. As the apples come tumbling down, by the mask theatre masters of Berlin. so do the rigid conventions of etiquette, dress All the secret fantasies usually hidden behind and body language. the scenery are thrown into the spotlight, with hilarious results. With three actors playing Inspired by the work of Pina Bausch, this some thirty different characters all without thrilling show explores conflict, lost love saying a single word, Teatro Delusio is “pure and afternoon tea. theatrical magic” (The Stage).

“Glorious. When it "Theatrical triumph comes to juggling, the without compare" Gandinis pip everyone else” The Times The Guardian

Photo: © Claudine Quinn Photo: © Simona Boccedi 43 The Peacock A world of entertainment in the heart of London

As ever, this season at The Bausch) this new version acrobatic talent of the long Peacock we find the most features more performers, established Motionhouse eclectic and entertaining more apples, and even more and the much-anticipated shows from across the globe. broken crockery than the return of Mark Murphy’s VTOL. This year we have international original. Then we are once companies travelling from as again presenting Familie Flöz, More summer shows at The far as Africa and Asia, along who come from this year’s Peacock will be announced with artists hailing from the Edinburgh Festival with their soon, so do keep up to date vibrant cities of Buenos Aires show Teatro Delusio. by checking on our website and Berlin. peacocktheatre.com. The Yamato Drummers of The London International Japan are returning to London And to get an idea of all the Mime Festival opens its 40th after an absence of nine shows, including video clips anniversary year with a special years with their new show, of the performances, visit edition of Gandini Juggling’s The Challengers and from our YouTube channel. Smashed. Inspired by the work Africa we present a joyful and of Pina Bausch (if you’d like energetic music and circus to know more about that show, Khayelitsha. From here company, see page 5 for in the UK we are showcasing Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina the physical theatre and Mother Africa, Khayelitsha - My Home

44 German Cornejo’s Tango Fire

Tuesday 31 January - Saturday 18 February Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Sat at 2.30pm, Sun at 2pm

International tango superstar German Cornejo’s Tango £15 - £42 Fire returns to The Peacock. With astonishing dancers accompanied by unforgettable live music, this is Argentine Free post-show tango class: tango at its fiery best! Tue 7 and Tue 14 Feb

Tango Fire takes you on an explosive journey through the history and evolution of this most seductive art form, showcasing traditional tango’s rawness and sophistication while evoking the intoxicating passion of late night Buenos Aires.

With some of the speediest footwork and tightest twirling in the business, German Cornejo and Gisela Galeassi are joined by a cast of extraordinary tango dancers, including World Tango Champions. Don’t miss this chance to experience authentic Argentine tango by the very best in the world.

“Spectacular. Scintillating steps set the stage alight” The Independent

45 Mother Africa Yamato Khayelitsha - My Home Chousensha - The Challengers

Tuesday 21 February - Saturday 11 Tuesday 14 - Saturday 25 March March

Tue - Sat at 7.30pm Tue - Sat at 7.30pm FF FF Sat at 2.30pm Sat at 2.30pm Sun at 2pm & 6pm Sun at 2pm & 6.30pm £15 - £38 £15 - £38 Under 16s half price. Max 2 half price child tickets per full paying adult. The unmistakable sound of the traditional Taiko drum, used in Shinto rituals, is challenged Two million people call Khayelitsha (the by the Yamato Drummers of Japan. Drums Xhosa word for ‘new home’) in South Africa weighing up to half a tonne are hit with ferocious home. The Township is plagued by endless skill, as each beat sends out a heart-thumping power cuts, but nothing can get in the way torrent of vibrations. of the rhythm and energy. In this high-energy, exhilarating performance, Dozens of acrobats, dancers and musicians the Drummers push their own limits in from seven African nations blend spectacular a staggering display of physical strength as circus feats, shimmering costumes and they use their entire bodies to produce their jaw-dropping dance, to bring the pulse thunderous music. of daily life in Khayelitsha to the West End.

“A Continental Feast for the Eyes and the Ears” New York Times on Mother Africa

46 Photo: Hiroshi Seo Motionhouse Mark Murphy’s VTOL Scattered OUT OF THIS WORLD

Wednesday 26 - Saturday 29 April Monday 1 - Wednesday 3 May

Wed - Sat at 7.30pm Mon - Wed at 7.30pm FF Sat at 2.30pm £20 £15 - £29 Age guidance: 14+ Under 16s half price. Max 2 half price child tickets per full paying adult. OUT OF THIS WORLD is action packed theatre from acclaimed writer and director Mark Murphy. Motionhouse make a splash as they return Set within a world of projected film and animation, to The Peacock with their trademark highly- it combines his signature mix of ground breaking physical style of dance and acrobatics, aerial choreography, explosive special effects combined with lavish imagery projected and intense storytelling. on a groundbreaking curved set. Part psychological thriller, part heart-rending Using ingenious choreography to interact with medical drama; this is the story of a woman’s their digital environment, seven performers descent into the depths of a medically induced tumble down waterfalls, dive through waves coma. But once safely cocooned, she discovers and freeze on glaciers in a thrilling blend a shocking truth that forces her to escape of film and live performance which explores her subterranean safe-house in a very real our relationship with water. fight for life.

“The performance is practically jet-propelled” The Times

Photo: Chris Nash 47 Family 01 Weekend Easter family fun, with shows and free activities for all ages

Grab a pen and mark the winning company from Spain, over the windy Easter weekend. calendar! The much loved who have managed to charm The public areas of London’s Sadler’s Wells Family Weekend the socks off children and top dance house were brimming is returning over the Easter parents alike with their playful with activity, from face-painting, bank holiday weekend, with and beautiful productions. storytelling and screen printing all the bells, whistles, and Vuelos, inspired by the work to dressing-up games and a sticks of glue that mark out Donald Hutera, of the great bearded genius tree of dreams” this much-loved kid-friendly The Times, on Family Weekend Leonardo da Vinci, is mini-festival. no exception. Fans of Aracaladanza (try With two shows to choose saying that three times fast) The second show hasn’t been from (but why choose?) and should take note: they are on announced yet, so check our more activities than you can their way to London and have website for details. shake a scissor-kick at, Family packed up their magical show Weekend is an unmissable day Vuelos to bring with them. out. Every corner of Sadler’s Wells will be decked out, For those not in the know, opened up, and taken over by Aracaladanza is a multi award- 01 & 02 Foteini Christofilopoulou games, workshops, and plenty of arts and crafts. Even our 02 Fox Garden Court Café will be joining in, with a special, family friendly menu available to fill up empty tums, hungry after a jam-packed day.

There’s always something going on to keep your little ones busy. Have a go at screen-printing and take home your very own work-of-art, jump about and play games, or just sit back and watch a show.

“Sadler’s Wells was a playground for kids – and their carers – 48 Family Shows

Aracaladanza Northern Ballet Vuelos Goldilocks & the Three Bears

Friday 14 & Saturday 15 April Friday 12 May

Fri at 3pm Fri at 12 noon & 2pm FF FF Sat at 11am & 3.30pm Adults: £8 Children: £6 Adults: £18 Children: £12 All ages admitted Sadler’s Wells Theatre Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Take flight with multi award-winning company Northern Ballet’s much loved Short Aracaladanza, as they return to the UK with Ballets for Small People is back with their delightful show Vuelos, inspired by a brand-new production. Leonardo da Vinci’s quest to make man fly. Goldilocks is looking for an adventure, Choreographer Enrique Cabrera uses and she soon finds her way to a hidden Aracaladanza’s trademark joyful style to make house in the forest. With a family of dancers canter like horses, make a mess at friendly bears and bowls of delicious the dinner table, play with fluttering birds and porridge, this charming ballet is just right! grow wings of their own, to create a magical show which will make your imagination soar. This child-friendly performance lasts approximately 40 minutes and is a perfect Supported by The Monument Trust introduction to ballet for little ones.

49 Family Shows

English National Ballet and English National Ballet School My First Ballet: Cinderella

Tuesday 11 – Saturday 22 April The Peacock Tue 11 & Wed 12 at 7pm Everyone's favourite rags-to-riches story, in a beautifully Thu 13, Fri 14, Tue 18, adapted ballet version for children aged three upwards. Wed 19, Thu 20, Fri 21 Cinderella is tormented by her stepsisters and she at 11am & 3pm can only dream of attending the Prince’s glamorous ball. Sat 15, Mon 17, Sat 22 at Abandoned to an evening of drudgery, she is visited by 10.30am, 2pm & 5.30pm her Fairy Godmother who transforms her into a glittering No show Sun 16 Princess who shall go to the ball. £10 - £25 With a narrator to help the young audience follow the story, Family Ticket available and a shortened version of Prokofiev’s ravishing score, FF Age guidance: 3+ My First Ballet: Cinderella is a unique collaboration between

English National Ballet and English National Ballet School. To book: peacocktheatre.com

“A gorgeous treat for kids and parents” Creative dance on stage Daily Express on My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty workshops for children. Thu 13 & Fri 14, Tue 18 - Fri 21 at 4.45pm. Book via ballet.org.uk

Artwork: Mark Ruffle

50 Sadler’s Wells On Tour Find Us On Tour Russell Maliphant Company Spring / Summer 2017 Conceal | Reveal 2 - 8 December 2016 Bruges, Lyon 12 - 20 May 2017 Sceaux, Vernier

01 been producing new shows Natalia Osipova in collaboration with its December 2016 & March 2017 Associate Artists, other dance Athens, Auckland companies and international Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, Antony partners, many of which have Gormley & monks from the received international awards. Shaolin Temple Sutra 12 - 15 January 2017 In 2016 in collaboration with The Santiago (Chile) Lowry, Salford and Birmingham Hippodrome, we launched The The 7 Fingers Movement, a new partnership Triptyque 4 February - 18 March set up to enable the partners Annecy, Créteil, Luxembourg, to produce and present large Miramas, Provence scale dance works and develop audiences for dance in the UK. Acosta Danza 18 - 27 May This spring, the partnership Łódź, Moscow venues will each present their own version of Sampled. Breakin’ Convention 5 May - 18 June

As well as bringing the very Birmingham, Blackpool,

best international and UK Brighton, Edinburgh,

dance to London audiences, Leicester, Luxembourg, Sadler’s Wells has an Norwich, Nottingham, Salford, Southampton, Toronto impressive portfolio of its own productions that tour Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui throughout the world. Since m¡longa 01 Sutra Photo: Hugo Glendinning 2005, Sadler’s Wells has 16 May - 17 June 02 Natalia Osipova Photo: Bill Cooper Birmingham, Brighton, Edinburgh, Newcastle, 02 Nottingham, Saffron Walden, Salford, Southampton

Dance: Sampled 24 February - 5 March Birmingham, Salford

Michael Keegan-Dolan Swan Lake/Loch na hEala 21 - 23 July Stuttgart

For full tour dates, see sadlerswells.com/touring

Visit our blog for the latest news on our tours in the UK and overseas: sadlerswellsontour.com Artwork: Mark Ruffle

51 Talks, Classes and Assisted Performances

Stopgap Dance Company Director’s Conversation Thursday 2 March, post-show talk Crystal Pite

Wednesday 12 April,

6pm - 6.45pm in the Lilian Baylis Studio: £4). Company Wayne McGregor Sadler’s Wells Artistic Director Saturday 4 March, Alistair Spalding in conversation post-show talk with Associate Artist Crystal Pite about the return of Betroffenheit Aakash Odedra Company and working with Scottish Ballet. Thursday 9 March, post-show talk

Adam Linder Wednesday 15 March, post-show talk

Agudo Dance Company Thursday 4 May, post-show talk

James Thierrée

Thursday 4 May, post-show talk Talks and Events

52 Portraits Screening

Wednesday 25 January

An epic love song written to an Rambert art form. With introduction from Wednesday 17 May, co-creators Jonathan Burrows, pre-show talk Matteo Fargion and Hugo Glendinning.

Nora Talks Friday 19 May, Pre and Post-Show Talks Monday 5 June pre-show talk Mime Festival: Gandini Juggling Monday 9 January, Nora Dance Classes post-show talk Thursday 1 June, post-show talk and Workshops Mime Festival: Family Flöz Thursday 12 January, Scottish Ballet Sampled post-show talk Friday 9 June Saturday 4 February pre and post-show talks. £3 Age 18+ Mime Festival: Mossoux Bonté Friday 13 January Alexander Whitley German Cornejo’s Tango Fire post-show talk Dance Company Post-show tango classes on Tuesday 27 June, Tuesday 7 & Tuesday 14 February Mime Festival: Joli Vyann post-show talk Wednesday 18 January, Sadler’s Wells Family Weekend post-show talk Shubbak Festival Family Dance Workshops Thursday 6 July Friday 14 & Saturday 15 April ZfinMalta Dance Ensemble post-show talk All £2 Thursday 9 February, post-show talk

52 Stopgap Dance Company Northern Ballet Professional Practice with Assisted Performances Saturday 13 May, 2.30pm Lucy Bennett and David Toole Audio Described Performance Dan Daw Friday 3 March Friday 31 March, 8pm £12, (£6 Concessions) or £20 for Captioned performance show and workshop package Insight Workshop at 12pm Touch Tour at 12.45pm

English National Ballet:

My First Ballet - Cinderella Rambert Breakin’ Convention Dance Workshops Wednesday 17 May, 7.30pm Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 April, 13-14, 18-21 April at 4.45-5.45pm Sign language interpreted 6pm (Peacock Theatre) performance BSL interpreter co-compere Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui - milonga Post-show tango class on Tuesday 23 May Akram Khan Company James Thierrée Saturday 3 June, 7.30pm Sunday 7 May, 4pm Elixir Festival Audio Described Performance Audio Described Performance Please visit: sadlerswells.com/elixir17 Touch Tour at 6pm Touch Tour at 2pm

For full information visit

sadlerswells.com

53 Patrons' Events

In return for their generous support our Patrons receive invitations to special events throughout the year, bringing them closer to the dance and the artists they love.

Patrons' Nights Enjoy pre and post show receptions around some of the highlights of the season, with the chance to meet the artists and creative teams. Patrons' Nights for the Spring / Summer 2017 Season are:

Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch Masurca Fogo Thursday 9 February

Company Wayne McGregor / Season Previews To find out more about any of Paris Opera Ballet Be among the first to hear our events or to join as a Patron, Tree of Codes about the exciting productions contact the Development office Tuesday 7 March coming up in the new season on 020 7863 8134. direct from Artistic Director English National Ballet Alistair Spalding. Pina Bausch / William Forsythe / Hans van Manen Thursday 23 March Insight Events Enjoy opportunities to get even Scottish Ballet closer to our work through MC 14/22 (Ceci est mon corps) exclusive events such as talks, / Emergence Q&As and tours, offering a Wednesday 7 June window into Sadler’s Wells’ world - from choreography to Alexander Whitley costumes, technical to touring. Dance Company 8 Minutes Tuesday 27 June

Look for the PN logo on our calendar

54 Sadler’s Wells is a charity, Sadler's Wells Trust Ltd Join Us and we need the support is a registered charity 279884 of those who love dance to help us create exciting work with the greatest artists.

To support our work, and get closer to the dance you love, please join us.

Become a Friend Become a Become a Patron Rehearsal Member

Get the knowledge Get behind the scenes Get closer to the dance you love

£55 per year £120 per year from £600 per year

Priority information All the benefits of being All the benefits of being a Friend, plus: a Rehearsal Member, plus: Season brochures straight to your door Invitations to free events, Invitations to exclusive Patrons' including Dress Rehearsals events and insight opportunities Ticket discounts and Season Previews Exclusive access to the best Call 020 7863 8000 or visit Call 020 7863 8134 or visit seats in the house for most sadlerswells.com/friends sadlerswells.com/members performances

Call 020 7863 8134 or visit sadlerswells.com/patrons

Front cover: Scottish Ballet’s Emergence. Photo by Andy Ross

55 Sadler’s Wells Theatre The Peacock & Lilian Baylis Studio Peacock Theatre Rosebery Avenue Portugal Street London EC1R 4TN London WC2A 2HT Angel Holborn, Temple

020 7863 8000 020 7863 8222 sadlerswells.com peacocktheatre.com

Sadler’s Wells Trust Ltd is a registered charity 279884

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