The time of year has arrived to embrace the magic and joy of the holiday season. What better way to kick off the celebrations than by securing tickets to London’s four most spectacular and festive dance shows? Here are Ten’s suggestions that are guaranteed to fill your heart with cheer and excitement for the season.
Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake: The Next Generation
(Sadler Wells: 3 Dec 2024 – 26 Jan 2025)
Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece is revised by the iconic choreography of Matthew Bourne. Replacing the female corps-de-ballet with a male cast, this emotive performance is set to ruffle a feather.
Premiering at Sadler’s Wells in London in 1995, Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake made an immediate impact on the dance theatre world, going on to become the longest-running full-length dance production in both the West End and on Broadway. It has since toured internationally, receiving over thirty prestigious awards, including the Olivier Award for Best New Dance Production and three Tony Awards for Best Director of a Musical, Best Choreography, and Best Costume Design.
Cinderella
(Royal Opera House: 3 Dec 2024 – 16 Jan 2025)
Choreographed by ROH founder Frederick Ashton in 1948, is back on the London stage this Christmas. Be part this whimsical production of the infamous fairy-tale.
Cinderella’s life is a monotonous routine of chores and servitude, dictated by her selfish and demanding Step-Sisters. Stuck at home with no escape in sight, her days are dreary and uninspiring. However, everything changes when she performs a kind act for a mysterious stranger. To her amazement, this encounter transforms her world entirely. With a touch of magic, she finds herself transported to a breathtaking realm filled with wonder. Here, fairies bestow gifts inspired by the seasons, ordinary pumpkins become magnificent carriages, and the promise of true love sparkles like a dream waiting to come true.
English National Ballet’s: Nutcracker
(London Coliseum: 12 Dec 2024 – 12 Jan 2025)
Embark on a colourful journey set on Christmas Eve in an Edwardian sweet shop. Choreographed by ENB’s artistic director Aaron S. Watkin, and Olivier Award-winner Arielle Smith.
Clara and her mother are at Drosselmeyer’s Sweets & Delights Emporium and she encounters an enchanted Nutcracker doll. They return home with a selection of liquorice all-sorts, nougat, marzipan, and, of course, sugarplums to delight their party guests. As the house fills with music and laughter, Clara is transported into a magical vision of sugar plums, launching her on an extraordinary adventure. She bravely defends her home from the Rat King before discovering a sparkling ice realm and its Queen. Step into a world beyond the ordinary and join Clara as she journeys to the Land of Sweets & Delights, where the Sugar Plum Fairy has planned a grand celebration in her honour.
The Snowman
(Peacock Theatre: 23 Nov 2024 – 4 Jan 2025)
The Snowman returns for its 27th year at the Peacock Theatre. This enchanting stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ beloved picture book and film by Dianne Jackson will captivate audiences once again. This production, directed by Bill Alexander, with music and lyrics by Howard Blake, including the beloved song Walking in the Air, features stunning designs by Ruari Murchison, frosty lighting by Tim Mitchell, and choreography by Robert North, all brought to life with the accompaniment of a live orchestra.
On a magical winter’s night, a snowman comes to life, sparking an extraordinary adventure. Together with a young boy who believes in him, they soar through the night sky, sharing moments of wonder and joy. Their journey takes them to Santa Claus himself on Christmas Day, as he prepares to deliver presents around the world. It is a timeless celebration of Christmas magic. Brought to life through enchanting dance, it beautifully captures the innocence and awe of childhood, weaving a story that resonates with audiences of all ages and leaves hearts aglow with festive spirit.
So there you have it, 4 incredible shows to enjoy this festive season, and don’t forget to book through Ten for the best seats in the house at great rates.
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