The Royal Ballet is gearing up to light up the stage with its much-anticipated Next Generation Festival, a vibrant celebration of rising dance talent from around the world. Set to commence on June 10th at the Linbury Theatre, this year’s festival offers an exceptional showcase of skill and promise, featuring some of the most talented junior companies and dance schools globally.
The festival highlights The Royal Ballet’s long-standing dedication to nurturing the international dance community. “This event in our summer lineup is a fantastic way to honor emerging dancers who will continue to enrich our art form worldwide,” says Emma Southworth, Creative Producer of The Royal Ballet. “The variety of choreography presented during the festival will be a delight for our audiences.”
The festival kicks off with the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company on June 10th, presenting a diverse array of performances that blend classical highlights, including the Rose Adage from The Sleeping Beauty and the Act III pas de deux from Swan Lake, with contemporary works by renowned choreographers like George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, and exciting new creations.
Next, the Youth Company of the Finnish National Ballet takes the stage on June 13th and 14th, offering a mixed program that includes Julian Nicosia’s Fragments of Time, Reija Wäre’s Clique, and Marco Goecke’s Blushing.
On June 17th, Ballet Central will make its festival debut with an energetic combination of classical and contemporary ballet. Their program features Kristen McNally’s vibrant FEAST, a new piece by Dickson Mbi, Frederick Ashton’s Foyer de danse, and Thick & Tight’s humorous Keeping Up with the Apocalypse.
Also making their debut at the Linbury Theatre is the newly formed Paris Opera Junior Ballet, showcasing works by George Balanchine, Maurice Béjart, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, and José Martinez.
Continuing to celebrate diverse talent, The Royal Ballet’s Chance to Dance returns on June 21st, featuring a new work by Arielle Smith. Students from the prestigious Royal Ballet School will perform on June 24th and 25th, presenting new choreography from students and established artists.
A dynamic collaboration sees the English National Ballet School join forces with Rambert School for two performances on June 27th, promising an exciting lineup of both original and classic works.
The festival wraps up on June 29th with the ZooNation Youth Company presenting Lights Out, a thrilling mix of powerful choreography, suspense, and drama.
Audiences can also gain deeper insights into the festival’s creations at Next Generation Taking Shape, an informative event in the Clore Studio on June 6th, featuring interviews with dancers, artistic directors, and choreographers. This year’s Next Generation Festival promises an exhilarating glimpse into the future of dance.
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