Outstanding Dance Made in Wales: Ballet Cymru and National Youth Dance Wales Present an Autumn Triple Bill

Ballet Cymru will be hosting an exciting collaboration with National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) in a shared triple bill at The Riverfront, Newport, on Thursday 30 and Friday 31 October. Showcasing three extraordinary short works by world-class choreographers, the evening features Momentum – Undone by Marcus Jarrell Willis, Artistic Director of Phoenix Dance Theatre, known for his signature blend of humour and seamless musicality. Ballet Cymru Artistic Directors Darius James OBE and Amy Doughty present a brand-new creation, Woven, especially for this programme.

Celebrating 25 years of National Youth Dance Wales, the young dancers return as special guests for the third consecutive year, performing The Night is Darkest Just Before The Dawn by acclaimed choreographer Yukiko Masui, which showcases powerful movement, blending Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Martial Arts. The piece is described as a tribute to ‘quiet champions’ - people who stand beside us in life’s darkest moments and support us without recognition.

Talking about the piece, Masui said: “This piece was inspired by a superhero character, where they are so powerful but they’re working in the darkest nighttime, so it’s not like you get a spotlight to shine but it’s about doing something for others and being a powerful figure when nobody is watching you.” 

Under the direction of Yukiko Masui and Jamie Jenkins, Head of Dance at National Youth Arts Wales, the company has been nurtured through a variety of technique classes, creative exploration sessions, wellbeing classes and mentorships, largely delivered by NYDW alumni.

National Youth Dance Wales 2025 member Carlie, from Neath, said: “It’s finally October and that means that NYDW’s performance is only a few weeks away and we can’t wait! I am excited for this performance because we get to share the stage with the amazing Ballet Cymru. This performance feels extra special, as the company are reunited to perform in Wales, representing our country, sharing our passion and hard work with the audience. We hope to see you all there at Newport Riverfront Theatre on October the 30th and 31st!”

National Youth Dance Wales 2025 member Jack, from Swansea said: “I’m so excited to be performing again with National Youth Dance Wales this October. It’s such an amazing opportunity to share the stage with such talented dancers and to perform work by choreographer Yukiko Masui. I can’t wait to bring all our hard work to life and share this experience with the audience. I'm so proud to be a dancer of National Youth Dance Wales.”

During the summer, NYDW’s 25th Year company came together in Cardiff for an intensive two-week residency to create and rehearse the extended version of the work before heading to Sadler’s Wells East, London, for its premiere alongside National Youth Dance Company Scotland and National Youth Dance Company, where they received a standing ovation.

For your final chance to catch this special performance, book your tickets today. Ticket prices are set between £17 and £20, with concessions available. Book tickets here: https://newportlive.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173667764