English National Ballet's R:Evolution at Sadler's Wells Theatre - October 2025

The programme features works from two of the most influential choreographers of the 20th century, both created in 1940s New York. George Balanchine’s Theme and Variations is a dazzling display of virtuosity, while Martha Graham’s visceral Errand into the Maze marks the first time her work has been performed by English National Ballet.

R:Evolution continues with the 1990’s classic Herman Schmerman (Quintet) by the legendary choreographer William Forsythe, who drew inspiration from both Balanchine and Graham and continued pushing the boundaries of ballet into the 21st Century.

The programme closes with David Dawson’s ethereal Four Last Songs, created in 2023 for English National Ballet. The work explores the beauty of humanity and the circle of life, set to the final score by Richard Strauss.

Aaron S. Watkin, Artistic Director of English National Ballet said: “R:Evolution celebrates the rich legacy of four visionary choreographers who pushed the boundaries of ballet. This programme showcases the vibrant evolution of this artform and invites audiences to ‘feel more’ through the energy and creativity of these exceptional works. I can’t wait for our wonderful artists to present this mixed bill.”

The music for three of the works – by Tchaikovsky, Menotti and R. Strauss – will be performed live by English National Ballet Philharmonic conducted by Music Director, Maria Seletskaja, with soprano Madeleine Pierard singing R. Strauss’s masterwork.

English National Ballet is thrilled to welcome two Principal Guest Artists to open the 2025/2026 Season. Alice Mariani, Prima Ballerina at La Scala, and Ricardo Castellanos, Principal Dancer at Norwegian National Ballet, will dance the principal roles in George Balanchine’s Theme and Variations on the opening night of R:Evolution on Wednesday, 1 October.