There’s just one week to go before the world’s largest celebration of storytelling begins.
The 35th Scottish International Storytelling Festival’s packed programme of over 130 events, taking place in Edinburgh and across Scotland, kicks off next Friday 18 October thanks to support from Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government’s Festivals EXPO Fund.
Since it began in 1989, the festival has been building bridges between cultures, artists and audiences through the power of storytelling. This year, to mark its 35th year, which coincides with 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, the festival has invited international storytellers from the Storytelling Arena in Berlin to join them, and share stories and films from their divided and reunified city.
Other international guests also invited to perform this year include Jeeva Raghunath who will be sharing stories from the folk lands of India, and Irish guest storyteller and broadcaster Nuala Hayes who founded the Dublin Storytelling Festival.
Nuala will be joined by Irish musician Aoife Granville for two events celebrating the life of storyteller, seanchaì and author Peig Sayers who lived most of her life on The Great Blasket Island off the coast of south-west Kerry.
They will also be entertaining audiences with Stories and Songs from Ireland at the Aberdeen & Beyond Storytelling Festival (22 Oct); in Edinburgh as part of the main programme (23 Oct); and as guests at the Wild Goose Festival in Dumfries (18-25 Oct); thanks to support from Culture Ireland.
Storyteller James MacDonald Reid who performs Cath Gailbheach nan Eòin The Desperate Battle of the Birds with electric cellist Ryan Williams in Edinburgh (22 Oct) and Tobermory (25 Oct) this festival. Photo credit Neil Hanna.
Unmissable Gaelic highlights this festival include, the premiere of Cath Gailbheach nan Eòin The Desperate Battle of the Birds told by Scottish storyteller James MacDonald Reid in English and Gaelic throughout.
This classic Gaelic folk tale will be shared in the traditional manner by James but with a contemporary twist, as it will be intertwined with live electric cello music by Scottish-Korean musician Ryan Williams.
Plus, experimental folk duo Burd Ellen will premiere their new multi-media performance Òran Mhòirwhich explores the Gaelic lore of the intertidal zone and mixes costume, film, folk song, electronic sounds and field recordings, with stories told by Eileen Budd from Angus.
Eileen will also be in Angus as part of the festival’s Go Local programme in November, for a weekend of crafts from the glens, Halloween history and folklore, and fireside ghost tales at Balintore Castle.
Performers from The Dream of Al-Andalus with L/R Omar Afif, Inés Álvarez Villa, Danielo Olivera, Director Jelena Bašić and Sef Townsend – premieres Sat 19 Oct at 8pm
Other events not to miss include The Dream of Al-Andalus, told by Sef Townsend and Inés Álvarez Villaand accompanied by flamenco guitarist Danielo Olivera and Moroccan musician Omar Afif. Al-Andalus was a vibrant era of cultural diversity in mediaeval Spain, where the interplay of Muslim, Christian and Jewish cultures sparked an artistic and intellectual renaissance. These cultures are fully represented by this group of artists who aim to evoke Al-Andalus, not as a relic of the past, but as an inspiration for a more tolerant future.
The Festival’s opening weekend also coincides with the October school holidays and there are plenty of family friendly events for children this year including; face painting, crafts, storytelling and songs presented by the Beltane Fire Society for Samhuinn; the premiere of a new sensory version of the traditional tale The Bouncy Billy Goats Gruff, suited to children with additional needs, their families and friends with storyteller Ailie Finlay and artist Kate Leiper;A Jaunt Round Auld Reekie with the Ceilidh Crew n’ Co performed with stories, music, comedy and puppetry; and a retelling of an ancient border ballad in Into the Woods: In the Footsteps of Thomas the Rhymer narrated by celebrated actor Julia Munrow and with music composed by multi-instrumentalist John Sampson and played by Pete Baynes.
Actor Julia Munrow narrates a new take on the ancient Border ballad of Thomas the Rhymer, with Pete Baynes and John Sampson
This year there is also a great selection of Edinburgh 900 events to look forward to, including a visit to St Catherine’s ‘Oily Well’ in Gracemount, known for its healing properties with storyteller Jane Mather, and an opportunity to join storytellers Jan Bee Brown and Beverley Casebow at the National Library’s exhibition exhibition Renaissance: Scotland and Europe, 1460-1630to hear true and traditional tales ofStars, Secrets and Sea Monsters.
In addition, Edinburgh will celebrate 20 years since its designation as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, with a conference from 22-25 October, which aims to bring together all the subsequent cities of literature in the network, and connect them to writers and literary organisations in the city.
Global Lab returns with four online workshops exploring intangible cultural heritage; present day Gaza through the voices of children and young people; stories from India; and Scotland as a slaver nation.
In addition, the festival’s in person workshop programme kicks off in week one with Emotional Literacy with Storytelling with Peter Chand, adult ADHD through the lens of folktales with Jacqueline Harris in Slowing Down to the Speed of Light which is also part of the Festival’s latest podcast series Another Story; and how stories can break down inhibitions, build cooperation and celebrate difference in Telling Across the Divide with storyteller Sef Townsend.
The Scottish International Storytelling Festival runs from Friday, 18 October to Thursday 31 October. Tickets to family events cost just £5 per ticket.
For those planning on attending multiple events, the Festival Supporter Pass offers discounted tickets to many live festival events, online and at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, as well as a discount at the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s bookshop, Haggis Box Café and an invitation to the Festival launch event.
To purchase tickets and browse the full programme, visit sisf.org.uk
Hellooooo!! The October break is only a week away and we have fantastic events running through the week!
All are free and there is no need to book See you there!
You might be wondering… what is Pokémon day? Well I’ll tell you!
We are going to have a scavenger hunt around the library with 3D printed Pokémon and once you’ve found the Pokémon and spell out the secret word, you’ll get a prize! There are only 70 prizes to give out so you’ll have to be speedy!
There will also be lures placed on all the Pokéstops surrounding the library in Pokémon Go so be sure to catch ’em all!
It’s not over yet: from pop-rock musicals to queer cabaret icons, cult classics to murder mysteries, and even Ghanian acrobatics alongside a cappella anthems
As Week 3 arrives at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, an array of talented artists at theSpaceUK are just embarking on their Fringe journey.
From pop-rock musicals to queer cabaret icons, cult classics to murder mysteries, and even Ghanian acrobatics alongside a cappella anthems.
With over fifty new shows gracing the stages this week, seize the opportunity to take a chance and discover something that will entice, excite, and thoroughly entertain you at theSpaceUK.
Here’s a small taste of the new shows you can catch in Week 3 at theSpaceUK:
It’s a Different World When the Music Stops! Glastonbury (theSpace@Surgeons’ Hall) Glastonbury promises a dream of youth, but after the pandemic, the characters return to seek out an anchor to the past but encounter revelations far beyond their expectations under the stars in the yurt enclosure.
A comedy-drama about love, dreams, death, whiskey, flags, wellies and getting old.
Can you take Essex out of the Girl? Trust Me, I’m from Essex (theSpace@Surgeons’ Hall) Lindsay Lucas-Bartlett will take you on a journey through life growing up in notorious Essex, England. . Enjoy this fun-filled journey with laughter, singing, and down-right drama. Trigger warnings: there are themes of an adult nature.
Fresh New One Man Musical! Zac Zac Zoom: A Story of Wheels and (F)eels (theSpace@Surgeons’ Hall) A brand-new musical comedy that was supposed to be about exploring life in a wheelchair… But Zac has something much eelier he’d like to talk about.
A hilarious one-man musical, written and performed by Zachary Loram, will have you asking the question… so, how do eels have sex?
An Electrifying, Intimate, New Play What the F*ck Happened to Love and Hope (theSpace on the Mile) Sixteen-year-old Nina is cheeky and naive, experiencing the thrills of young love at school, until a night out takes a horrific turn when she’s spiked, leaving her to navigate the devastating aftermath. Usually confident and outspoken, Faye insists she’s perfectly okay—definitely.
A Sensory Journey into a Seductive World… Auto/Erotic Tango (theSpace Triplex) Prepare to be taken on an intense, drama-fuelled journey. A heady mix of sensual dance, hypnotic music, lifts, kicks and tricks… After the opening night of their new show Tango Passion, an Argentine dance couple find themselves in a trap of their own creation… away from the shimmery stage lights and social media circus, who are they really?
Carly Gibson: salt-of-the-earth, boss bartender with a freeloading cousin. When her stage mom runs off with her money, Misty is broke, squatting on her cousin’s sofa “up north”, and working behind a posh hotel bar.
A Fragmented Fantasy… NeuroChatter (theSpace@Surgeons’ Hall) Elliott: a defensive yet laid-back aspiring artist. And Host: the reluctant, vulnerable core-self… hiding beneath them both.
Can Host take back her true heart and autonomy, or will she forever remain stuck behind the two dominant alter-egos that steer her mind, fight for her body and control over her life?
A summer like no other… Hot Girl Summer (theSpace@Surgeons’ Hall) Being single in her mid-twenties… how hard can it be? Post-breakup, Tilly jets off on a girls’ trip to Barcelona and impulsively lands a job in London.
Leaving behind her small-town life in Scotland, she dives into her new life, and begins the treacherous journey of navigating life in The Big Smoke.
She plans a summer like no other, but the reality is far from the Pinterest board she has envisioned.
A Laugh Out Loud True Story Blood, Sweat and Beers: How One Man Overcame a Complete Lack of Ability to Represent His Country (theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, 19-24) As a kid, Mick Colliss always dreamed of playing for Australia. He tried a number of different sports, from rugby union to lawn bowls, but failed at all of them. But then, at the age of 42, a chance discovery on the way to a Wallabies game changed everything. He finally got to wear the green and gold – just not in the way you might think.
Classic Tunes and Delightful Chaos Undecided: A Musical Misadventure (theSpace on the Mile, 19-24) Durham University’s 2 x national musical theatre champions are bringing you a show full of iconic musical songs and beloved musical characters to Edinburgh this summer! Laugh yourself silly as you, the audience, vote for which of your favourite musical theatre characters find themselves in the wrong song, and watch in amazement as our troupe members belt out classic tune after classic tune.
Deep Seated Rivalry… Sammy Blew Up a Toilet (theSpace @ Venue 45, 19-24) The story follows instant best friends Azza and Jake as they are forced to take in Sammy – a teacher’s pet, snitch and all-round strange person. Azza and Sammy become frenemies, kept together by unfortunate circumstances and peacemaker Jake. Jump into a nostalgia-filled world with eccentric characters, childhood shenanigans and an exploding toilet!
It’s Hot Fuzz meets Sweeney Todd. Prime Meat (theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, 19-24) Prime Meat is a horror comedy that follows Esme and Chris Stockton who, five years ago, moved to the idyllic Cotswold village of Raperton-on-the-Water. While Esme has adapted to village life, Chris is struggling. As Roland and Cherry help them prepare for the imminent community fete, the sinister reality of the village is revealed.
It’s Just Another Day at the Puppet Orphanage. Bucket Head (theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, 19-24) A closed-down puppet orphanage reopens, leaving resident squatters Ozzie Airwalker and Jim Horgletooth having to deal with new friends and challenges. A feel-good family show for everyone. Inspired by Saturday Morning Cartoons, a show packed with laughs and heart.
Who Knew Life Underground would be this Cosy? Six Feet Under (theSpace Triplex, 19-24) America. The 60s. Nuclear war. Eight neighbours escape to the safety of their underground bunker. Under the dim, flickering lights of their metal coffin, they have no idea how long they’ll be spending in each other’s company – and even less of an idea when rescue will come. They may be tucked safely away from the horrors on the surface, but perhaps the real danger still lurks within.
A Tribute to Sheer Young Adult Confusion. Sent from my Phone, (theSpace Triplex, 19-24) Close yourself in a windowless office with Lola, Penelope and Chad to explore their roots, vices and dreams.
How far will Lola go to get her Visa? How can Penelope do the right thing when everyone is lying to her? Will Chad be able to save the girl he loves from herself? It appears a night of shredding paper is all it takes to find out.
Based on the Hit Reality TV Show… Love Is Blind: The Improvised Musical (theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, 19-24) If you enjoy exploring human relationships’ ups and downs (and sideways!) through musical comedy, this show is for you!
Characters will be built based on audience suggestions and dates, and some will fall in love without ever seeing each other. The couples will have to decide whether love really is blind at the altar, but which relationships will last until the reunion one year later? And which will tear themselves apart?
It’s officially summer, even if it may not always feel like it. That means that not only are schools now on holiday, but many of our supporters, staff and partners are as well.
That doesn’t mean the there’s nothing happening around the Heart though. Read on for some of the various events that you can come along and take part in and enjoy.
Don’t forget to check the website and social media platforms for up to date news.
The Knitted Christmas Tree update
The Knitted Christmas Tree is five months from opening day and is well on schedule. We are receiving green squares daily from West Sussex, London, Luton as well as every area of Edinburgh and the Lothians. Thank you for every single square and not forgetting the many beautiful tree decorations. We have 5000+ squares and 1000+ decorations.
We are having a series of sewing parties on Friday afternoons from 2-4pm. The dates are 5th July, 19th July and 2nd August. Everyone is welcome to come along. We are sewing the squares into triangles ready to go onto the branches and of course there is coffee, tea and cake!
The fantastic experts of Men’s Shed are busy constructing the trunk but it’s under wraps and no one but the men have seen it.
We had a great day at Leith Market describing what the project is about and thanks to Sara for generously giving us a stall. We met people from all over the world who were fascinated by what is happening and they took away our posting bags.
We are confidently expecting knitting from Texas, New York, New Zealand, Finland and Denmark to name but a few countries. Our Tree is going international and if anyone has a contact on the space station let us know.
More news next month
Save the Date – Tattie Fest 21 September 2024
Join us for our very first Tattie Fest at the Heart of Newhaven. We’ll be celebrating the garden and all thing potato-related at this free, community event.
Expect potato printing, potato fancy dress, a home grown tattie beauty contest and of course lots of potato eating!
If you’d like to get involved in organising, just get in touch with Hayley at bloomyogaedinburgh@gmail.com, and start growing your own now if you’d like to enter the beauty contest…
What’s on your bucket list?
Whilst developing the Crowdfunder with members of our Heart Dementia Meeting Centre we were able to identify some interesting activities; from indoor rock climbing to canoeing down the canal.
If you would like to help us with our blue-sky ambitions or simply support a member by ‘paying their membership forward’, please go to our crowdfunder and check out the rich array of ‘rewarding ideas’.
Don’t forget we have lovely rooms here at the Heart – perfect for meetings but also family gatherings over the summer.
We have a number of spaces available for booking, including meeting rooms, classrooms and workshop spaces.
We can cater to different types of events and meetings, whether for children’s parties, creative workshops, performance classes and rehearsals, board meetings or networking events.
Spaces can be booked for a single occasion as well as for regular sessions on a mid/long term basis.
More more information or to arrange a viewing of our spaces, please get in touch and we will be happy to help.
Teas and coffees can be provided for an additional charge and external catering arranged on request.
There’s something for everyone this summer at the National Galleries of Scotland, with lots of free events in Edinburgh across the National, Portrait and Modern to discover.
Dive deeper into the Galleries exhibitions with ticketed tours from the experts. Explore the fascinating stories behind the art with tours and talks. Be swept away with magical music performances in the Portrait and National. Bring the whole family along for fun accessible events or try your hand at creating your own art in the joyous Drawing Room workshops.
Visitors can get an insight into the exhibitions, acquisitions and collections with captivating talks from National Galleries of Scotland’s curators and guest speakers in person at the National and streamed free online.
Older kids Friday after school art session at The National Galleries of Scotland.
Delve into the wondrous imagination and spectacular installations of leading contemporary artist Do Ho Suh with guest speakers Amie Corry, Director of Publications for Do Ho Suh and independent curator Fatoş Üstek.
Be whisked away to the sun, sea and society of the late 19th and early 20th centuries in a special opening talk for An Irish Impressionist: Lavery on Location with Professor Kenneth McConkey. For those fascinated by Scottish history, join Jim Phillips, Professor of Economic and Social History at the University of Glasgow and author of Scottish Coal Miners in the Twentieth Century.
Looking at the Before and After Coal exhibition, he will explore the meaning and relevance of the strike 40 years on. Uncover the new works in Scotland’s national collection with a special look at the rare Encounter by Remedios Varo 1959, the first oil painting by the artist to enter a public collection in the UK.
Be immersed in magical free live music events all while soaking up the beautiful art and surroundings of the Portrait and National gallery. With performances from Live Music Now musicians, including clarinet quartet The Four Keys, Mexican guitarist Morgan Szymanski joins Scottish violinist Roo Geddes and Mexican singer-songwriter Lavinia Negrete.
In July, celebrate American Independence Day with the Phoenix Duo. Edinburgh-based Sangstream Folk Choir perform a programme of songs about the challenging lives which miners and their families have faced over the centuries inspired by the Before and After Coal exhibition.
Older kids Friday after school art session at The National Galleries of Scotland.
Experience the galleries with a tour guide and learn the fascinating history and stories behind the art. Get to know the artworks and themes in the new Scottish galleries at the National in the Scottish Art in Focus tours which take place every month on Saturday afternoon.
Learn more about the changing landscape of Edinburgh and Scotland and the people who made it all happen. For those wanting a more detailed look into Edinburgh’s evolving cityscape and how it captivated the imagination of artists, join the Inside Out: Edinburgh Old and New walking tour.
Those taking a trip to the National Galleries of Scotland’s summer exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy, An Irish Impressionist: Lavery on Location, can join the Sunday Afternoon Tour on Sunday 28 July. The tour travels through the key themes from the extraordinary life of the Belfast-born artist, from Scotland to New York via Paris and Morocco.
Indulge your own creative energy with The Drawing Room workshops. Offering a unique space to playfully explore creativity and drawing, with absolutely no experience necessary to get involved in these hands-on making sessions. These joyous sessions bring fresh, relevant and accessible approaches to drawing from some of Scotland’s most exciting artists
Be inspired by the empowering world of Woman in Revolt! at Modern Two, with the workshop looking at how mark-making can also be conceived as sculpture, installation, video, writing, textiles and more.
For those unable to make it to the gallery there is the opportunity to get involved online via Zoom with The Drawing Room Kitchen Table. Exploring some favourite experimental drawing exercises and techniques, aimed at boosting drawing confidence.
There are free family activities for all ages and stages to enjoy, as well as accessible events for visitors with specific access needs. Weekly Family Friday events let your children’s imaginations run wild.
Older kids Friday after school art session at The National Galleries of Scotland.
With mornings dedicated to little ones expect interesting textures, lights, sounds and sensory art-fun. Later in the afternoon older kids can get involved in the trails, new play activities and, of course, hands-on making with artists. Sensory-Friendly Sundays for families with children with additional support needs, ensure a quiet, comfortable space is available at all times.
For adults, discover fascinating audio-described and deaf led British Sign Language tours for visitors with a visual impairment.
With events for exhibitions including Woman in Revolt!, Do Ho Suh and Vermeer. With the opportunity to meet other people, see artworks in the gallery and take part in creative activities. All with access to a comfortable quiet space.
The Royal Highland Show, running from June 20th – 23rd 2024, promises to offer an unforgettable experience with a wide array of trade stands featuring everything from artisanal crafts to cooking demonstrations and agricultural machinery. With over 800 exhibitors spread across the 110 acre site, it is set to surprise and delight show-goers with this year’s theme being ‘acres of epicness’.
For the foodies:
Stuffed full of food and drink, the show offers boundless opportunities to sample Scotland’s finest produce. There are also cookery demos on offer in the Food for Thought Cookery Theatre, with some of the country’s top chefs including Head Chef at The Globe Inn, Fraser Cameron, FutureChef Winner, Phoebe Lawson, and Head Chef at Benugo, Emma Clark-Szabo, to name a few. There will also be a huge choice of food vendors serving everything from haggis neeps and tatties to freshly prepared fish and chips and from lobster rolls to Greek gyros.
With Scottish staples such as Mrs Tilly’s, Mackies of Scotland, Innis and Gunn and Highland Park, there are options for those with a sweet tooth or looking for a tipple to tide them over. The world-renowned Johnnie Walker whisky will have a pop-up bar showcasing their vintage truck, ensuring the taste of Scotland’s quintessential whisky is shared with visitors. There will also be a Taproom Bar from Innis & Gunn.
For the shopaholic:
For the avid shoppers, a vast range of retail opportunities await, spread across numerous shopping villages, offering clothing, shoes, crafts, gifts, pet supplies, art, toys and a range of premium shopping outlets which can be found at the Countryside Village. Event attendees also might be surprised to find the Renewable Village, offering a variety of sustainable products and services including wind, solar, hydroelectric, geothermal, tidal, biomass companies and more.
This year the Home and Gift Hall has had a layout revamp and now includes the Scottish Handcrafts Championships. There will be a number of notable clothing retailers available such as Beaumont & Bear, Elm of Burford and Lanx Shoes. Hoggs of Fife, known for its hand welted country footwear, will also be offering a 20% discount on all items for RHASS members.
For music lovers:
For those wearing their dancing shoes, the West Stage line-up is not to be missed. Performances to suit all music tastes from folk rock and swing to reggae and opera will take place in addition to daily ceilidh sessions.
Additionally, tickets are available to purchase for the Royal Highland Hoolie presented with Farmer’s Bash which is back with eight live folk and country music acts performing on the evenings of Friday 21 and Saturday 22 June. From viral sensation Nathan Evans, Scottish folk pioneers Tide Lines and the eclectic sounds of the Peatbog Faeries, the diverse range of sounds offers a little bit of something for everyone.
For families:
Experience a world of fun and creativity at the Royal Highland Show, where kids go free! Explore and discover activities linked to food, farming and the working countryside under one roof at the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) Discovery Centre. Circa Alba’s exciting mix of movement and circus skills, including juggling, parkour, capoeira, along with professional face painting and Annie the alpaca and her family from the Alpacas Trekking Centre, will let little imaginations soar. Dive into abstract art where kids can engage in animal-themed arts and crafts, creating personalised keepsakes to take home.
For the farmers:
The Royal Highland show offers farmers the chance to see some of the best livestock and machinery available up close and personal! As well as the latest labour, time and money-saving gadgets being on display at the RHASS Technical Innovation Awards.
The Scottish Association of Young Farmers (SAYFC) will also be present throughout the show, with visitors encouraged to stop by and experience what it means to be part of Scotland’s largest rural youth movement.
David Tennant, Head of Royal Highland Show, said:“This year’s Royal Highland Show is bigger and better than ever and it’s all thanks to the wide variety of exhibitors. The diverse array of trade stands is a true celebration of everything Scotland has to offer in agricultural heritage, artisan crafts and rural communities.
“We are on track for a sold-out show, so if you’d like to experience a mix of entertainment, sample Scotland’s wonderful larder and see the very best in livestock, from the traditional to the unexpected, it’s worth purchasing your tickets now. It’s not to be missed!”
Explore a wide variety of products and services at the Royal Highland Show. Mark your calendars for June 20-23, with limited tickets available please visit https://www.royalhighlandshow.org/ to book your spot.
Programmes for the show can be purchased from the Official Royal Highland Show Merchandise Shop opposite the Main Ring clock tower or from roving sellers throughout the site.
Please drink responsibly – UK Chief Medical Officers recommend men do not regularly exceed 3-4 units daily and women, 2-3 units daily.
This Carers Week (10th – 14th June) local charity LifeCare Edinburgh is highlighting the support offered to unpaid carers every week of the year
Are you an unpaid carer? Do you support another adult – friend or relative – due to their age, illness or disability? Then this could be for you!
LifeCare Edinburgh understands how important it is for unpaid carers to get a well-deserved break. The charity offers a range of respite services such as their registered day clubs, outreach care, help at home and meals on wheels services. The charity also offers a fantastic range of free drop-in activities designed for unpaid carers to relax, do something for them and meet others in a similar position.
Join LifeCare to try a new activity or get back to something you love. All unpaid carer activity sessions take place in the LifeCare Hub on Cheyne Street and run through the week at different days and times.
Why not pop along to Zumba on a Monday 6pm, Watercolours on a Tuesday at 11am, Painting and Sculpture for Beginners on a Thursday at 11am or Yoga on Sunday at 5pm? Everyone that joins a class receives a voucher for a free tea or coffee in the charity’s community café CafeLife based within the hub.
Thanks to these activities, carers report feeling supported, connected, valued, refreshed and overall they feel better equipped to continue in their caring role. One carer recently told us “I feel like myself again”
All activities are drop-in, no need to book, and are completely free thanks to funding from The Short Break Fund and LNER Community Fund. You’re welcome to bring along the person you care for.
A spectacular line-up as theSpaceUK announces its full programme for the 2024 Fringe
theSpaceUK announces its full 2024 programme with over 400 exciting shows
Largest new-writing programme at the Fringe, packed full of hidden gems
Club Life, the 2023 Fringe First-winning club/theatre immersive experience, returns for eight performances only!
Grammy award-winning cellist Leah Coloff stars in Super Second Rate, the compelling story of playing alongside music greats like David Bowie and Debbie Harry
Double Fringe First winners Xhloe & Natasha ride back into town with their brand-new show, A Letter to Lyndon B Johnson or God: Whoever Reads This First
…and join theSpaceUK for an EdFringe first in conjunction with ITVX as we present live at the fest, a global broadcast of the festival’s best comedians, live from the Grand Theatre at theSpace @ Surgeons Hall and hosted by your favourite comedians.
theSpaceUK is announcing the full 2024 programme with over 400 shows on sale at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The 2024 line-up features the return of Fringe favourites and a packed programme of new writing and companies.
Audiences can see the full programme and purchase tickets via theSpaceUK website (www.thespaceuk.com).
Theatre Highlights
Double Fringe First winners Xhloe and Natasha return with A Letter to Lyndon B Johnson or God: Whoever Reads This First and explore the blurred lines between childhood fantasy and harsh reality. Club Life, the 2023 Fringe First-winning club/theatre immersive experience, returns for eight performances only! Lemon Jelly’s Fred Deakin hosts an interactive joy ride through his 80s/90s clubland adventures.
Jess by Glass Half Full Theatre offers an honest look into a woman’s life facing loss and heartbreak. Jess, a cardiothoracic surgeon, struggles with her career, relationships, and the desire for change. An Act of Grace from Ottawa Little Theatre invites audiences to a gripping tale of suspense in this contemporary thriller brought to you by the producers of the 2022 Carol Tambor Award-winning production of Burn.
Via Dolorosa by Chasing Rainbows presents David Hare’s exploration of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Through encounters with various public and private figures, this performance lays bare the complexities and tensions of the region. There are further poignant tales brought about by conflict in Hagar: War Mother, which tells the story of a mother and son fleeing the brutality of Syria’s war.
Bluffing Your Way in Ballet from Seizing The Day Company takes a fast-paced, irreverent journey through the history of ballet. From Isadora Duncan to Václav Nijinsky and Margot Fonteyn, this avant-garde performance blends stories and dances of ballet’s greatest stars. Hannah Whittingham stars in Death Becomes Us, confronting the final taboo head-on with tales of Walt Disney’s rumoured cryogenics and Meryl Streep’s accidental escapades. In this one-person biographical drama, Trawled – When Adventure Becomes Survival by Eoin Ryan recounts the true story of an Irish backpacker on a prawn trawler in the Coral Sea.
Malion by Tired Horses Theatre presents a feminist retelling of the Pygmalion and Galatea myth and explores themes of masculine identity and artistic vision in this brand-new production. Something To Believe In by The Brooklyn Bottling Company tackles the clash between faith and queerness at an all-girls Catholic school in a dark comedy that questions who truly deserves a place in heaven.
There are plenty of Fringe favourites returning for 2024. In A Highly Suspect Murder Mystery – The Great British Bloodbath by Highly Suspect, the nation’s favourite baking competition turns deadly in an interactive murder mystery that invites the audience to solve a fiendish plot filled with evidence and cryptic clues. Charles Dickens: The Hanged Man’s Bride from Blue Orange Arts brings to life a ghostly tale of passion, deceit, and the fine line between reality and the supernatural. Elizabeth I: In Her Own Words by Flying Solo! Invites you into the tumultuous world of late 16th-century England through Elizabeth I’s letters and Shakespeare’s speeches. After a sell-out fringe in 2023, Nicole Nadler returns with Why Am I (Still) Like This? , a humorous and relatable exploration of living with ADHD at 30.
Cabaret Highlights
Magician and mind illusionist Sean Alexander takes you on a reflective journey through the moments that shape us in 1 Moment in Time, packed with jaw-dropping magic. Murder: The Mind-Reading Lawyer by Tomas McCabe combines mentalism with courtroom drama in a family-friendly performance filled with incredible mentalism and the drama of court. Naughty or Neurodiverse – Magic from Another Planet features rising star Angus Baskerville. Diagnosed with Autism and ADHD at 15, Angus struggled through school until magic turned his life around. His first solo show at the Fringe delves into this journey, showcasing mind-reading and unbelievable trickery.
Elle Barto: Itchy and Scratchy presents Elle Barton in their premier solo show. New York’s hottest drag sensation takes you on a journey through your favourite film and television moments, lip-synced by memory. Frankie Mack – The Vegas Showman electrifies the Fringe with a blend of Dean Martin’s suave, Elvis’ allure, Bublé’s depth, and Robbie Williams’ energy. Solve Along A Murder She Wrote by Tim Benzie returns with an interactive screening of the classic episode “Paint Me a Murder.” Following last year’s success, this critically acclaimed show involves a race to solve the crime with the Fameometer and Suspiciometer.
Musical Highlights
In Ctrl+Alt+Deceit! by Cambridge University Musical Theatre Society, audiences are introduced to Aunt June, a dowdy, kind, and lonely woman who ends up with a laptop that leads her to the Dark Web and a low-level drug ring. In Mary Mary Quite Contrary, CRE8IV THEATRE CO presents a spoof adult musical about Mary Whitehouse, a religious, moral campaigner from Edwardian England and her clash with the BBC. Lindsay Lucas-Bartlett takes audiences on a personal journey in Trust Me, I’m from Essex. This show chronicles life growing up in notorious Essex.
Cambridge Footlight Lily Blundell’sThe Man Who Wouldn’t Be Murdered is a sinful dark comedy musical set in prohibition-era New York. Nominated for the Standing Ovation Award, this show blends greed, fraud, 1920s jazz, and drink into a gorgeously crafted musical. Delving into darker themes, The Avison Brothers bring Godfather Death: A Grimms’ Musical to the stage. This award-winning musical, based on a lesser-known Grimms’ fairytale, explores mortality, healthcare, and class. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre offers a lighter touch with I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, a hilarious and heartfelt musical that tackles the intricacies of modern love. From first dates to marriage, children, and the twilight years, this show traces the arc of relationships through life’s stages.
Chevron Theatre presents Fringe – The Musical, a hilarious musical comedy set in a beloved family-run hairdressing salon in Essex. Finally, BramwellBrand Productions brings Wallis to the stage, telling the story of Wallis Simpson and her romance with Prince Edward, who gave up his crown for her. This musical explores whether their story is a love tale or a narrative of a woman trapped by her ambition and media scrutiny.
Comedy Highlights
Steve Goodie brings a unique tribute to the stage with AL! The Weird Tribute (and How Daniel Radcliffe Got Mixed Up in This Nonsense)complete with songs, accordions, guitars, and visual effects that cost many dozens of dollars. In Ajahnis Charley: Thots and Prayers, Ajahnis Charley explores the hilariously absurd journey of a nerdy gaymer who, after a failed death drop at a rave, finds himself at the gates of Gay Heaven as audiences witness the HOMO and avoid the FOMO. Described as a hidden gem, Aude Lener returns to the Fringe with a typically French show that redefines love stories in Aude Lener – Love Reboot.
The renowned host of Rule of 7×7 and co-star of Friends from College and Ray Donovan Brett Epstein: Alone on Stage is a darkly comic solo show that delves into the highs and lows of being an artist and the essence of being alone. In Chris Tavener is Faking Cool,Chris Tavener battles intrusive thoughts through witty, satirical songs. Known for his performances and appearances on BBC 6 Music and Sky’s Showcase TV, Tavener brings his unique brand of humour to the stage. Help! My Vagina Is Trying to Kill Me!by Yola Jean Lu is a darkly comedic solo show that explores one woman’s journey through STDs, miscarriages, and pre-cervical cancer.
Tom Hearn Live: How Fabulous is That?! marks the Edinburgh debut of viral comedian Tom Hearn. This Canadian Comedy Award winner brings jaw-dropping musical performances and original characters to the Fringe stage. Disco Horses: A Sketch Revueby American duo Disco Horses presents an hour of absurd, high-concept comedy. Tales from a British Country Pub by Chris Sainton-Clark takes audiences through the hilarious and troublesome experiences of working in British pubs.
And finally, join theSpaceUK for different comedy line-ups every night, with known faces and new acts – all broadcast LIVE on ITVX. Be part of the action and watch the chaos of comedy live from the Fringe!
Children’s Highlights
Goose by TaleGate Theatre tells the charming story of Sophie, who meets Goose while on a trip to the park, and the pair quickly become best friends in a brand new musical for the under-fives that’s the perfect theatre trip, featuring muddy puddles, wild goose chases, and plenty of honking.
The Comedy Games with Coach Monby Monique Warren brings a sports extravaganza to the stage. In this Olympic-inspired kid’s clown show, the audience helps find the missing athletes and participates in sports-tastic events like eyebrow push-ups and a slow-motion running race.
Follow a teacher’s magical seaside summer holiday in Miss English’s Holiday by Action Theatre. With puppetry, masks, magic, sing-along songs, and comedy, this show is a smash hit from Italy and is perfect for those under nine.
Cantonese Opera x Children’s Interactive Theatre presents the Dic Dic Chang Chang Playground and invites young audiences to join Captain Dic Dic and Chang Chang at the Cantonese Opera Playground in Edinburgh.
Dance & Music Highlights
Grammy award-winning cellist Leah Coloff stars in Super Second Rate,the compelling story of playing alongside music greats like David Bowie and Debbie Harry. Janis: The Story, the Music, the Legend, presented by Rockology Productions Australia, is a rockumentary showcasing Janice Smithers fronting a world-class band as they perform the hits of superstar Janis Joplin.
Audiences will be transported back in time with iconic tales that have shaped the phenomenal jazz landscape from the 1900s in Divas of Jazz, From Fitzgerald to Jones. Brief Case of Crazy by Skedaddle Theatre Company tells the story of Thomas, a remarkable and unconventional introvert who navigates his way through a 9 to 5 job while admiring his equally shy colleague, Daisy.
There’s the most extensive a cappella line-up at the Fringe, featuring eight of the finest a cappella groups from the UK: Algorhythm, AcadePitch Productions, Steelworks A Cappella, Cadenza, Durham Dynamics, The Rolling Tones, Trinity A Cappella and Perfect Forth.
Charles Pamment, Artistic Director of theSpaceUK, said:“WELCOME to theSpaceUK! The home of award-winning performance and new writing at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
“As we celebrate 30 years of bringing work to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe it’s with great pleasure that we present our 2024 programme.
“theSpaceUK experience is how this fabulous festival is meant to be seen, every genre of live performance in one spectacular programme. We’re very proud to be known in Edinburgh for presenting new and original work, for harnessing grassroots performance, for identifying that untapped ‘gem’, as well as hosting work from established artists.
“Whether it be at our very stylish Royal Mile venues, the magical Venue 45 where we started our fringe journey all those years ago or our state-of-the-art hub at theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, Symposium Hall and theSpaceTriplex, complete with new theatres and garden bars, we look forward to hosting another vast array of exceptional and award-winning work from across the globe.
“Of course, we can’t make any of this happen without the commitment of all who bring shows. It’s to those creatives that we applaud loudly as another August in Edinburgh beckons.”
HRH Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, witnesses first-hand how Dance Base helps dance flourish and changes lives
HRH Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, paid a visit to Dance Base, Scotland’s National Centre for Dance, on Saturday. The Edinburgh-based charity has a mission to encourage and support the potential for dance in everyone.
Jim Hollington, Dance Base CEO, said: “We were delighted to welcome His Royal Highness to Dance Base.
“In 2001 his brother, His Majesty King Charles, officially opened our brand-new centre on Edinburgh’s Grassmarket. We were delighted to show HRH some of what we have achieved over nearly a quarter of a century, helping dance to flourish and change lives.”
During his visit, the Duke of Edinburgh received a tour of the purpose-built building, a centre for creating, nurturing, and celebrating dance in the heart of Edinburgh.
Completed in 2001, the building hosts four unique studios, over 60 classes a week, broad reaching support for dance artists, performances, international exchanges, community projects and more – all delivered by a knowledgeable and passionate team. HRH visited children taking part in an Aerial Skills class, hosted by All or Nothing, and dancers in a West African dance class.
Duke of Edinburgh also enjoyed a series of curated performances featuring dancers aged from their teens to their eighties, offering a snippet of the important work the organisation has been doing across their public, professional and Health & Wellbeing programmes. These included:
Dance for Parkinson’s film – When We Dance
When We Dance is a collaboration between Dance Base’s Dance for Parkinson’s and filmmaker Lucas Chih-Peng Kao. The collaboration comprises of people living with Parkinson’s, their families, friends, carers, our volunteers, and a team of professional artists. Running since 2013, Dance for Parkinson’s is a core part of Dance Base’s Health and Wellbeing work and established a strong president of supporting people living with neurological conditions through dance. Dance Base has supported satellite groups to be established all over Scotland and continues to support the network.
24 Carat Gold – Freak Out
24 Carat Gold is a company offering opportunities to underrepresented elderly dancers with current members ranging in age from their 60s to 90s. They will perform Freak Out, choreographed by Alan Grieg.
Lothian Youth Dance Company – Kids Today
Lothian Youth Dance Company are Dance Base’s in-house dance company for young dancers aged 14 to 21 years old. Inviting new members each year, LYDC provides opportunity for young people to find their creative voice through dance. They will perform a piece titled Kids Today, choreographed by Dance Base’s Artistic Director Tony Mills.
Jo Richards – Barbieland
Jo Richards has been a professional dancer and dance teacher for over 23 years. She teaches Commercial Improvers, Commercial Jazz Beginners and Street Dance classes at Dance Base and represented the organisation at the 2010 Commonwealth Games Ceremony in India. She will perform her piece Barbieland alongside students from her dance classes.
The Dance Base team was proud to showcase their achievements and broad reach which includes:
50,000+ attendances at public classes
10,000 attendances at our August festival performances
50+ artist residencies where dance artists based in Scotland come to create new work
330+ live performances in August and throughout the year
60+ weekly classes in 12+ dance styles
They also talked about the upcoming events at the organisation, including Skills ‘N’ Billz, a Breakin’ battle on Sunday 26 May featuring Breakers from across the UK and beyond, invited for the daylong battle; Dance with Pride event to celebrate Edinburgh Pride and this term’s specialist workshops in Reggaeton, Ballroom and Contemporary techniques.
On 6 June, Dance Base announces the 25+ shows from Scotland and all over the world which will be presented this August as part of Dance Base 2024 Festival in association with Assembly Festival.
World Premiere of Mark-Anthony Turnage’s opera Festen
Eight new opera productions across two stages including: Eugene Onegin, The Tales of Hoffmann, Die Walküre, Semele, The Sound Voice Project and a Bernstein double bill
European Premiere of Wayne McGregor’s MaddAddam
Eight works new to The Royal Ballet by choreographers including Christopher Wheeldon, Joseph Toonga and Pam Tanowitz
40 years of breaking down barriers with our pioneering learning programmes
11 productions shown in 1,500 cinemas across the globe
Tickets available from £3 – on sale from Wednesday 10 July
The Royal Ballet and Opera has announced its 2024/25 Season.
Opening on Monday 2 September 2024 under a new and combined organisational name, the Season features a programme of bold new productions, alongside returning audience favourites, thrilling debuts and bright new voices.
Alex Beard, Chief Executive of the Royal Ballet and Opera, said: “Today we announce a Season of extraordinary breadth and ambition – to audiences old and new, in schools and cinemas across the UK, and through streaming and digital media, right across the world.
“Bringing ballet into our name is long overdue – The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera have performed under the same roof since 1946 – and both companies now enjoy the prominence that they rightfully deserve.
“The whole of the Royal Ballet and Opera is far more than the sum of our parts. We may perform at the Royal Opera House, but three quarters of what we do is experienced by people outside this building and, as we mark 40 years of our Learning programme, the impact and influence of the Royal Ballet and Opera can be felt in every corner of the country.”
The evolution of its name, the Royal Ballet and Opera, celebrates the institution in its entirety, recognising the whole, not just one of its parts. Together, the Royal Ballet and Opera will continue to perform at Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House, with performances shown in cinemas around the world, marking an exciting new era for the two companies as they enter a thrilling 2024/25 Season.
The Royal Opera 2024/25 Season
In an ambitious Season, eight new productions spanning three centuries are spread across the Main Stage and the Linbury Theatre, including the world premiere of Festen. Based on Academy Award-winning filmmaker Thomas Vinterberg’s 1998 cult film of the same name, Festen is composed by Mark-Anthony Turnage (Greek, Anna Nicole, Coraline) with a libretto by Lee Hall (Billy Elliot) and will be directed by Richard Jones. Previously a hit West End play, this darkest of comedy-dramas delves into the disturbing subject of abuse and generational trauma, with a cast including Allan Clayton, Stéphane Degout, Gerald Finley, Eva-Maria Westbroek, Natalya Romaniw and more, with Edward Gardner conducting.
Director of The Royal Opera, Oliver Mears, said: “2024/25 is set to be a thrilling Season for opera here at the Royal Opera House.
“With the world premiere of Festen, a brand-new commission by Mark-Anthony Turnage, we reaffirm our commitment to new opera; some of the greatest singers of our time perform alongside the most exciting voices of the future; and phenomenal creative teams bring unforgettable stories to life with eight new productions across both our stages.
“And as ever, our world-class Orchestra and Chorus will offer exactly the kind of intense, rich experiences that audiences are craving.”
In a year that has seen Leonard Bernstein celebrated in mainstream cinema with the success of film biopic Maestro, his two major opera works will be staged at Covent Garden for the first time. The Linbury Theatre opera season opens with two of his semi-autobiographical operatic masterpieces, Trouble in Tahiti and A Quiet Place, directed by Oliver Mears and conducted by Nicholas Chalmers.
In the autumn, Ted Huffman (4.48: Psychosis) will make his Main Stage debut directing a new staging of Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin. Henrik Nánási conducts Gordon Bintner in the title role, with Kristina Mkhitaryan (Tatyana), Liparit Avetisyan (Lensky), and Avery Amereau (Olga).
After the success of Cavalleria rusticana/Pagliacci and Carmen, Damiano Michieletto returns to Covent Garden to direct Offenbach’s last and greatest work, The Tales of Hoffmann. Conducted by Antonello Manacorda, Juan Diego Flórez and Leonardo Caimi share the title role and are joined by Alex Esposito, Julie Boulianne and Olga Pudova, Marina Costa-Jackson, and Ermonela Jaho in the three soprano roles.
Following the glittering triumph of Das Rheingold, Barrie Kosky delves back into Wagner’s mythic universe with the second instalment of the Ring cycle, Die Walküre. With Antonio Pappano leading from the podium, Christopher Maltman reprises the role of Wotan, alongside Elisabet Strid (Brünnhilde), Lise Davidsen (Sieglinde), and Stanislas de Barbeyrac (Siegmund).
Premiered in 1774, Semeleis the latest in our Handel series of operas and oratorios that were first performed at Covent Garden. Darkly satirical, this new production from Oliver Mears considers class, privilege and degradation. Handel specialist Christian Curnyn conducts as Pretty Yende marks her return to Covent Garden in the title role, with Ben Bliss making his House debut as Jupiter.
Between Antonio Pappano’s departure as Music Director of The Royal Opera and Jakub Hruša’s arrival in September 2025, this Season hosts them both. Hruša conducts Corinne Winters, Karita Mattila, Thomas Atkins and Nicky Spence in the revival of Claus Guth’s Olivier Award-winning production of Jenůfa.
Other unmissable returning favourites include the first revivals of Tobias Kratzer’s Fidelio conducted by Alexander Soddy and Adele Thomas’Il trovatore conducted by Giacomo Sagripanti and Carlo Rizzi. Aigul Akhmetshina reprises the role of Carmen alongside Freddie De Tommaso, conducted by Mark Elder. Ariane Matiakh conducts the second cast.
Commemorating the centenary of Puccini’s death, Speranza Scappucci, Principal Guest Conductor Designate, leads her first Covent Garden stage production, Richard Jones’ La bohème. Also returning is Jonathan Kent’s Tosca starring Sonya Yoncheva, SeokJong Baek and Bryn Terfel, conducted by Eun Sun Kim in her House debut. Andrei Șerban’s Turandot is conducted by Rafael Payare and Francesco Ivan Ciampa with Sondra Radvanovsky and Ewa Płonka in the title role.
The Season opens with revivals of Richard Eyre’s La traviata and David McVicar’s The Marriage of Figaro which sees Julia Jones conducting rising stars Ying Fang and Huw Montague Rendall alongside Jacquelyn Stucker and Luca Micheletti. Completing the Season are David McVicar’s Faust with Stefan Pop, Erwin Schrottand Lisette Oropesa in the main roles and Robert Carsen’s Aida. For Christmas, Antony McDonald’s story-book production of Hansel and Gretel is conducted by Giedrė Šlekytė who makes her House debut.
In the autumn, the Linbury Theatre will present The Sound Voice Project. With music by Hannah Conway, this internationally award-winning opera-video installation features a libretto by Hazel Gould and performances by Roderick Williams and Lucy Crowe, raising questions about how we make ourselves heard, how we listen, and which voices are invited to the stage.
Continuing our Britten odyssey, impassioned opera meets dreamlike dance in a Royal Ballet and Opera double production of Phaedra + Minotaur, a collaboration with award-winning director Deborah Warner and choreographer Kim Brandstrup. Last performed as part of 4/4 (2020), the work sees Christine Rice reprise her Olivier award-nominated role – expertly harnessing Phaedra’s eroticism and despair.
The Jette Parker Artists programme welcomes seven talented newcomers who will perform on stage throughout the year, as well as bringing their talents to a lively new production of Telemann’s Pimpinone in the Linbury Theatre.
In the summer, the award-winning, interactive, multi-sensory opera for toddlers and babies Catch a Sea Star, will be staged in the Clore Studio. With music from J.S. Bach, children can step into an enchanting underworld realm of mermaids and sea monsters.
The Royal Ballet 2024/25 Season
In 2024/25 The Royal Ballet presents a diverse programme of works that celebrate the Company’s rich heritage while featuring groundbreaking creations by some of the world’s leading choreographers and creative teams.
Following the landmark success of Woolf Works and The Dante Project, Wayne McGregor returns with the European premiere of MaddAddam. Combining forces of contemporary dance, music, fashion and literary worlds, Margaret Atwood’s monumental trilogy of novels (Oryx and Crake, The Year of the Flood and MaddAddam) comes alive in this thrilling visceral three-act ballet. With a specially commissioned score by celebrated composer Max Richter and costume design by Gareth Pugh, it promises to be a spectacular experience.
In October, Encounters: Four Contemporary Ballets features the work of four distinctive choreographers championed by The Royal Ballet on the Main Stage. Experience a spectrum of human emotion beginning with Kyle Abraham’s gentle meditation on love, loss and memory in The Weathering.
Four characters battle for control in Crystal Pite’s gripping boardroom drama The Statement. Expanding Dispatch Duet, which received critical acclaim on its premiere in 2022, Pam Tanowitz employs her trademark style to turn the conventions of dance inside out. Joseph Toonga presents his second Main Stage work for the Company where the idioms of classical ballet and hip-hop converge.
Masses of dancers move as a mesmerising whole in Crystal Pite’s Light of Passage which receives its first revival in February. Grappling with themes of safe passage, displacement, community and mortality, this award-winning work is set to Gorecki’s affecting Symphony of Sorrowful Songs – a reminder of the power of human connection in our turbulent times.
Wonderland becomes wondrously real as the ballet Season opens with two Technicolor adaptations of Lewis Carroll’s popular children’s story, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland – both of which will be part of our Schools’ Matinee roster. On the Main Stage, The Royal Ballet’s Artistic Associate Christopher Wheeldon’s interpretation partners with magical music by composer Joby Talbot and whimsical designs by Bob Crowley. Powerhouse storytellers ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company return to the Linbury Theatre with The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, transforming Carroll’s Wonderland into a dysfunctional institution in this energetic hip-hop show featuring original music and family-friendly storytelling.
Christopher Wheeldon’s versatility as a choreographer is showcased in a new mixed programme – Ballet to Broadway – where sensuous contemporary ballet meets the energy of musical theatre. Luminescent and shimmering, Fool’s Paradise marked the first of his many collaborations with composer Joby Talbot. Three works follow, new to The Royal Ballet. Recognising Wheeldon’s extraordinary success in musical theatre, the Company performs the ballet from his Tony Award-winning musical An American in Paris, set to Gershwin’s jazzy melodies. Its zesty spirit is contrasted with two duets of intimacy and yearning. The wistful songs of Joni Mitchell set the scene for The Two of Us, while the music of Keaton Henson is used in the tender duet from Us that Wheeldon created for BalletBoyz in 2017.
When George Balanchine arrived on the shores of America, he changed the landscape of 20th-century ballet. Pushing the boundaries of the art form with extreme speed, dynamism and athleticism, he defined the American neoclassical style. With Balanchine: Three Signature Works, The Royal Ballet present a triptych of distinctive pieces in one programme. Serenade was the first ballet he created in America, and its ethereal beauty is contrasted with the avant-garde Prodigal Son, a parable of sin and redemption. Symphony in C with its symmetrical formations and crystalline placements will bring this programme to a majestic and exhilarating close.
The Royal Ballet brings Shakespeare’s young lovers vividly to life with the return of Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo and Juliet, a modern classic that celebrates its 60th anniversary. Prokofiev’s glorious score feeds this epic tragedy, sweeping the ballet towards its inevitable and devastating conclusion.
Also marking 60 years since its creation, John Cranko’s 1965 take on Pushkin’s novel Oneginreturns to the Main Stage. Set to an arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s heartbreaking score, Cranko’s expressive choreography results in a sumptuous period ballet.
For Christmas, Cinderella continues to cast its spell. This enchanting work by The Royal Ballet’s Founding Choreographer Frederick Ashton, with evocative music by Prokofiev and some spectacular stagecraft, is a rich theatrical experience not to be missed. In the Linbury Theatre, nothing says Christmas like a Greek tragedy: Ben Duke and Lost Dog’s electric and darkly hilarious work of dance theatre set to live music, Ruination, returns, turning the classic Greek myth of Medea on its head.
In the Linbury Theatre, the Company continues its commitment to honing new and diverse choreographic and performing talent. In October, First Soloist of The Royal Ballet Joseph Sissens is the driving force behind Legacy, a celebration of Black and Brown dancers from all over the world.
In the spring, International Draft Works returns, gathering burgeoning choreographers from all over the world, revealing how the art form is ever changing and evolving. Closing the Season, celebrating both national and international talent, the Next Generation Festivalis a showcase for the diversity and range of global performing talent presented by a selection of junior companies and dance schools.
Across the Season, the Linbury Theatre welcomes returning guest companies including Northern Ballet, Acosta Danza and Ballet Black. The Ballet Black: Heroes mixed programme will include a new work, If at First, by Choreographer-in-Residence at Scottish Ballet Sophie Laplane, that explores the complexity of humanity, heroism and self-acceptance.
Director of The Royal Ballet, Kevin O’Hare, said: “An electrifying Season lies ahead as we stage thrilling works new to the Company, crafted by creatives at the forefront of choreographic innovation.
“The breadth of the Company’s artistry is highlighted in revivals of rich repertory favourites alongside a Linbury Season that welcomes guest collaborators and bright burgeoning talents. As ever, audiences will have the chance to witness world-class performances by our remarkable dancers. There really is something for everyone.”
Inspiring creativity across the UK
40 years at the forefront of arts education
Reaching more than 45,000 students across the UK
Seven Schools’ Matinees
In 2025, the Royal Ballet and Opera celebrates 40 years of pioneering learning programming as it unveils its biggest year of learning initiatives to date. Over the past year the schools programme has grown from 1,575 schools to 2,710, working with more than 46,000 students, 1500 teachers and 700 schools to inspire creativity and open access to the arts across the UK.
These programmes sit alongside on-going projects in communities up and down the country including regional partnerships with Bradford 2025, UK City of Culture, Rotherham, Children’s Capital of Culture 2025 and a new focused initiatives in the east of England.
Jillian Barker, Director of Learning and Participation, Royal Ballet and Opera explains: “Our vision is to work towards creativity for every child. At a time when arts education in schools is squeezed and specialist teachers are in decline, it is more important than ever to strive to reach more children and young people.
“We are redoubling efforts to offer high quality opportunities to any primary school in the country, inspiring children and building the creative confidence of teachers and opening the opportunity to discover ballet and opera.
“We are working to diversify young dancers and singers. And we want ROH to be a place of creative adventure, welcoming to all, particularly families.”
This Season, the Royal Ballet and Opera will continue to offer a range of programmes to enhance arts education, spark creativity, and improve access to the arts for all. These learning and community-based initiatives include:
Extending its flagship programme to reach more schools nationwide, offering free resources to help teachers and students be creatively confident in the classroom. This Season will also introduce new live streamed lessons into schools from the Companies and artists of the Royal Ballet and Opera.
The return of Create Day, a large single national school event, held in partnership with UNICEF RRSA UK (Rights Respecting Schools Alliance), bringing together 30,000 children in person and virtually in a celebration of everything they have learned.
Hosting seven Schools’ Matinees across the Season, giving children from across the UK the chance to experience a live production at the Royal Opera House with heavily discounted tickets and travel grants.
The Creative Exchange programme – partnerships with commonly underrepresented groups in the arts to create a collaborative performance piece representing different life experiences.
Growing the reach of its Chance to Dance programme, where the Royal Ballet and Opera partner with local dance and primary schools in areas with limited artistic provision to introduce young people to ballet.
The Youth Opera Company, where over 100 state school children have the chance to work with Royal Ballet and Opera artists, performing on the Main Stage in productions including Carmen and Hansel and Gretel.
The Royal Ballet and Opera also continues to invest in future talent and professional development through initiatives such as the specialist apprenticeship programme, which will see the number of participants double this Season.
Remaining one of the largest employers of artistic professionals in the UK, the apprentices join 1,044 full or part time staff, 2,060 contractors who are consistently employed, and freelancers or commissioned staff.
The fostering of talent and diversity is also seen in our second Overturecohort in partnership with Black Lives in Music, beginning in Autumn 2024. The year-long mentorship by players in the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House is available to young musicians aged 18-25 from the global majority or other underrepresented backgrounds. The scheme provides support tailored to the participants’ individual needs, enhancing skill sets, insight and training in the classical music field.
The Royal Ballet and Opera also present 11 productions in 1500 cinemas across the globe next Season, including such beloved classics as Cinderella, The Nutcracker and The Marriage of Figaro and exciting new productions of The Tales of Hoffmann and Die Walküre.
The 2024/2025 Season’s ambitious work contributes to the enduring influence of the Royal Ballet and Opera, with a recent study finding it has one of the largest economic impacts on the ACE’s National Portfolio.
Whether it is welcoming audiences from across the globe to experience magic on its stages or inspiring creativity in classrooms across the UK, the Royal Ballet and Opera celebrates everything that the arts bring to UK society, looking boldly ahead to a new and exciting Season of world-class productions.
See you there!
