Quadrophenia :The Ballet & more announced by Sadler's Wells

[Odyssey]

Today’s Dance Links contain several reports of a new venture by Pete Townsend’s wife, Rachel Fuller, for a balletic version of Quadrophenia.. Intrigued, I found a few further reports and discovered that the venture was originally reported as being directed by Michael Nunn and  William Trevitt. However, the recent press release states the choreographer is Paul Roberts ( who has worked with the likes of Harry Styles ), and the direction is stated to be by Rob Ashford, an American choreographer/director who has worked on multiple Broadway productions. Paris Fitzpatrick of Balletboyz and New Adventures fame has the lead role. It looks like an interesting project that which I assume will gain a lot of interest and publicity  before it premieres in Spring 2025. 

[bangorballetboy]

Nathalie Harrison (ex-RB) is the creative producer.

[Odyssey]

That’s piqued my interest further.

[Jan McNulty]

And the press release which concentrates on Quadrophenia but includes a lot more besides:

 

 

For immediate release: Tuesday 25 June 2024    Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK announce major new touring dance production of Pete Townshend’s Quadrophenia for 2025 plus return of The Rite of Spring and more Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK today announce Pete Townshend’s Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet, a major new dance production of Townshend’s iconic album of the same name, which will tour the UK in 2025. Quadrophenia is steeped in the mythology of the 1960s - sharp suits, soul music, vespas and parkas but its themes of lost youth, rebellion, the search for belonging and hunger for social change are just as urgent today.     A rich orchestral arrangement of the album by Rachel Fuller and Martin Batchelar provides the backdrop for Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet. The brand-new production is choreographed by Paul Roberts, directed by Rob Ashford, and features original costumes by renowned British fashion house Paul Smith and Natalie Pryce, projection by Nick Hillel and lighting design by Fabiana Piccioli. Rising star Paris Fitzpatrick performs the lead role of Jimmy. Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet tours to Plymouth Theatre Royal (28 May - 1 June 2025), Edinburgh Festival Theatre (10 - 14 June 2025) and the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (18 - 21 June 2025) before having its official opening at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London (24 June - 13 July 2025) and then visiting The Lowry, Salford (15 - 19 July 2025).    Pete Townshend said: ‘QUADROPHENIA is the only Who album that I solely composed and produced (1973) and the movie that followed in 1979 launched the careers of some of the finest young actors of the time. In 2016 Rachel Fuller agreed to create an orchestral score of the album. When I first heard a demo of this version, without vocals, my first thought was that it would make a powerfully rhythmic and emotionally engaging ballet. Workshopped in 2023, that thought became a reality and I knew we had something that would resonate with new audiences, and also bring joy, as it had in its other iterations for decades. The themes of young people growing up in difficult times are still so relevant. It’s going to be poignant, tender and poetic and epic.’     Sir Alistair Spalding CBE, Artistic Director and Co-CEO of Sadler’s Wells, said ‘It's an honour for Sadler’s Wells to be a collaborator and lead producer of this unique production. Quadrophenia is a story crying out to be told through dance and with this talented creative team we can be sure that we can achieve its full potential. Working closely with Pete Townshend and his team and our regular collaborator Universal Music UK we can each bring our particular skills and knowledge to make this classic of The Who's discography a powerful and meaningful story for our time.’    Also announced today, Pina Bausch’s The Rite of Spring returns to Sadler’s Wells Theatre this November. The Pina Bausch Foundation, École des Sables and Sadler’s Wells production, which features a specially assembled company of dancers from African countries, has recently completed a hugely successful, sold out, tour of North America and Europe. The Rite of Spring is presented in a double bill with common ground[s] by ‘the mother of contemporary African dance’ Germaine Acogny and iconic Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch dancer Malou Airaudo.    A filmed version of Julie Cunningham & Company’s how did we get here? is today released on Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage for free for a month. The collaboration between Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Jules Cunningham, Spice Girl Melanie C and dancer Harry Alexander, originally premiered in Sadler’s Wells Theatre in January 2023.    Sadler’s Wells home in the West End, the Peacock Theatre brings its characteristic blend of entertainment, with everything from tango to street dance, mime to puppetry, drumming, slapstick and more. Acclaimed company Flawless celebrates its 20th anniversary this November, bringing nostalgia, high energy and entertainment in PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE.  Belgian-based Compagnie Focus & Chaliwaté in association with MimeLondon presents Dimanche, which combines puppetry, video and deadpan mime to ruminate on the end of the world as we know it.    Foggia Company from Buenos Aires champions the Argentine tango and a traditional concertina-like instrument in the UK premiere of Bandoneón, Tango Obsession. From Japan, Drum TAO combines large scale taiko drumming and precise choreography in The Dream, and Yllana and Toom Pak present the UK premiere of TRASH! - a high-energy family friendly show set in a recycling centre. By popular demand, Jim Steinman’s Bat Out of Hell – The Musical returns to the Peacock for a limited three-week run.    Tickets go on sale to Patrons on Friday 28 June, to Rehearsal Members on Monday 1 July, to Members on Wednesday 3 July and on general sale on Friday 5 July 2024.        Julie Cunningham & Company                                                                   DIGITAL STAGE  how did we get here?          Available for free until Thursday 25 July 2024    In January 2023, internationally recognised dancer and choreographer Jules Cunningham (Julie Cunningham & Company) premiered their latest Sadler’s Wells commission, sweeping audiences into an intimate journey through space and time. With seating surrounding the stage, a constellation of three distinctive performers created a space to collide, drawing on personal and universal questions, asking how did we get here?     This work was captured in an empty theatre and is now released on Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage for free. Featuring an original cast: Harry Alexander (Michael Clark Company), Melanie C (Spice Girls) and Jules Cunningham (Julie Cunningham & Company).        A Pina Bausch Foundation, École des Sables  and Sadler’s Wells production  Pina Bausch / Germaine Acogny & Malou Airaudo                               SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE  The Rite of Spring / common ground[s]              Wednesday 6 – Sunday 10 November 2024  Tickets from £15    The idea of ‘exchange’ is central in this two-part programme which marks the first collaboration between the Pina Bausch Foundation (Germany), École des Sables (Senegal) and Sadler’s Wells (UK). Bausch’s (1975) The Rite of Spring is danced by a specially assembled company of dancers from African countries. In this pioneering work, with music by Stravinsky, a ‘chosen one’ is sacrificed changing the season from winter to spring. common ground[s] is a work created, performed and inspired by the lives of two remarkable women: Germaine Acogny, “the mother of contemporary African dance” and founder of École des Sables and Malou Airaudo who joined Bausch in the early days of Tanztheater Wuppertal and later was a professor and director at Folkwang University. This poetic and tender piece, the duo’s first collaboration, examines their shared histories and emotional experiences.        Flawless                                                                                             PEACOCK THEATRE  PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE                                                                             20th ANNIVERSARY TOUR Saturday 9 November 2024 Tickets from £18   Founded by Marlon “Swoosh” Wallen in 2004, Flawless has captivated the world with their choreography, emotional storytelling, and enthusiasm. Since their rise to fame on Britain's Got Talent in 2009, Flawless has starred in blockbuster movies, performed at events including the Paralympics Opening Ceremony, and collaborated with English National Ballet and Strictly Come Dancing professionals.     With influences ranging from Michael Jackson and James Brown to Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, their performances blend classic and contemporary styles.    Featuring the full Flawless company, Flawless Dance Hub, Flawless NXT Gen and special guests, PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE is a celebration of Flawless’ 20 years, bringing nostalgia, high energy, and entertainment.         Compagnie Focus & Chaliwaté  in association with MimeLondon                                                                 PEACOCK THEATRE Dimanche        Wednesday 29 January – Saturday 1 February 2025  Tickets from £18    Sometime in the near future. Humanity has failed to adapt to the new environmental reality. It is officially the end of the world as we know it.       Dimanche portrays the absurdity of a family trying to enjoy its traditional Sunday gathering in the midst of climatic chaos. Their house is shaking as storms rage outside.      Meanwhile, somewhere in the Arctic Circle, three wildlife reporters are struggling to document Earth’s last living species.       Using lo-fi FX wizardry, miniature vehicles, puppetry, video and superb visual comedy, Dimanche   observes both the ingenuity and stubbornness of humans as they try to preserve their everyday habits in the face of ecological collapse.    BSL interpreted post-show talk on Thursday 30 January 2025  Recommended age 9+          Foggia Company                                                                                                         PEACOCK THEATRE  Bandoneón, Tango Obsession                                                                               UK PREMIERE               Wednesday 5 – Saturday 15 February 2025  Tickets from £18    Foggia Company brings the history of Argentine tango to the Peacock Theatre straight from Buenos Aires in the UK premiere of Bandoneón, Tango Obsession.     The show spotlights the bandoneón - an instrument similar to the concertina - which comes to life to lead the other instruments, sounds and movements of the dance to encapsulate the passion of tango at its very best.    Audiences are invited to a riveting tango experience as musicians and dancers are brought together by the power of the bandoneón in every number.          Yllana and Toom Pak                                                                                 PEACOCK THEATRE TRASH!                                                                                                                     UK PREMIERE               Tuesday 18 February – Saturday 1 March 2025 Tickets from £18 Yllana presents the UK premiere of TRASH! This high-energy family friendly show includes humorous musical sketches set in a recycling centre.     Four creative workers give new life to waste and rubbish including propane tanks, umbrellas, balls, tool boxes, horns and bin bags by using percussion, movement and slapstick.        Drum TAO                                                                                                                     PEACOCK THEATRE    The Dream                                                                                                     UK PREMIERE              Tuesday 11 – Saturday 15 March 2025  Tickets from £18    Drum TAO’s extraordinary athleticism, large scale taiko drumming and precise choreography, all presented with contemporary costumes and stunning visuals, are combined in The Dream.      Based in Oita, Japan, the group brings their one-of-a-kind instrumental performance, with the distinctly Japanese lineup of Wadaiko drums alongside beautiful melodies on Shinobue (flute), Koto (harp), and Syamisen (guitar).  Drum TAO has received international acclaim for its dedication to the Japanese musical craft and these performances mark the company’s London debut.        Jim Steinman’s Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical                                                           PEACOCK THEATRE  Wednesday 21 May – Saturday 7 June 2025  Tickets from £18    Following a successful UK, Ireland and International tour from 2021 – 2023, the award-winning Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical, featuring Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf’s greatest hits, returns to the Peacock Theatre by popular demand.      Inspired by the spectacular arena tour of Australia and New Zealand, this reimagined show feaures a dynamic eight-piece rock band on stage and sprawling multi-level platforms that will transport audiences through the diverse worlds of Bat Out of Hell, from Raven’s bedroom to the depths of the Lost’s underground domains.    Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical features iconic hits including You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth, Bat Out of Hell, I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That) and Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad, as well as the previously unreleased song What Part of My Body Hurts the Most    Glenn Adamson (We Will Rock You) returns to the cast alongside Katie Tonkinson (Bonnie and Clyde), and original cast members Rob Fowler and Sharon Sexton (MAMMA MIA!).      Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK present                             SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE    Pete Townshend’s  Quadrophenia: a Mod Ballet               Tuesday 24 June – Sunday 13 July 2025  Tickets from £15    In 1973, guitar smashing rock genius Pete Townshend wrote QUADROPHENIA. Recorded by The Who - it quickly became an iconic and multi-million selling album. Quadrophenia defined a generation and in 1979 inspired the cult classic feature film of the same name.    Now it’s back – this time as an explosive dance production - Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet - with a cast of exceptional dancers, introducing new audiences to troubled mod Jimmy’s story while remaining true in spirit to the much-loved original. With a rich orchestral score by Rachel Fuller, the production is choreographed by Paul Roberts, and directed by Rob Ashford. Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet features original costumes by renowned British fashion house Paul Smith and Natalie Pryce, projection by Nick Hillel and lighting design by Fabiana Piccioli. Rising star Paris Fitzpatrick will perform the iconic lead role of Jimmy. Paris won Outstanding Male Modern Performance for his Romeo in New Adventures’ recent production of Romeo and Juliet at the National Dance Awards earlier this month.    Quadrophenia is steeped in the mythology of the 1960s - sharp suits, soul music, vespas and parkas but its themes of lost youth, rebellion, the search for belonging and hunger for social change are just as urgent today.    A Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK co-production Recommended age 12+ Audio described performance on Saturday 5 July at 2.30 pm with accompanying touch tour at 1 pm Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet tours to Plymouth Theatre Royal (28 May - 1 June 2025), Edinburgh Festival Theatre (10 - 14 June 2025) and the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (18 - 21 June 2025) before having its official opening at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London (24 June - 13 July 2025) and then visiting The Lowry, Salford (15 - 19 July 2025).           About Sadler’s Wells       Sadler's Wells is a world-leading dance organisation. We strive to make and share dance that inspires us all. Our acclaimed year-round programme spans dance of every kind, from contemporary to flamenco, Bollywood to ballet, salsa to street dance and tango to tap.       We commission, produce and present more dance than any other organisation in the world. Since 2005, we have helped to bring more than 200 new dance works to the stage, embracing both the popular and the unknown. Our acclaimed productions tour the world. Since 2005 we’ve produced 64 new full-length works and performed to audiences of more than two million, touring to 51 countries.       Each year, over half a million people visit our three London theatres - Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Lilian Baylis Studio and Peacock Theatre. Millions more attend our touring productions nationally and internationally or explore our digital platforms, including Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage.      Sadler’s Wells East   In 2024 we’re opening a fourth London venue in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Sadler’s Wells East will house a 550-seat mid-scale theatre, as well as facilities for the new Rose Choreographic School and the hip hop theatre training centre, Academy Breakin’ Convention.    Sadler’s Wells East joins the rich cultural heritage of Stratford, opening in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park as part of the East Bank development alongside the BBC, UAL’s London College of Fashion, UCL and the V&A. Sadler’s Wells East will support artist development and training, and the creation of new work. It will build the infrastructure for dance and make it accessible to more people. Sadler’s Wells East will house a flexible theatre presenting a wide variety of dance performances. Community will be at the heart of Sadler’s Wells East with a large open foyer that can be used by everyone as a meeting or performance space. There will also be dance studios and world-class dance facilities for dancemakers to train, create and rehearse productions.     Supporting artists   Supporting artists is at the heart of our work. We have associate artists and companies, which nurture some of the most exciting talent working in dance today. We host the National Youth Dance Company, which draws together some of the brightest young dancers from across the country. Sadler’s Wells Breakin' Convention runs professional development programmes to champion and develop the world’s best hip hop artists, as well as producing, programming and touring groundbreaking hip hop performances.    Learning and community links   Around 30,000 people take part in our learning and engagement programmes every year. We support schools local to our theatres in Islington and Stratford, designing experiences for children and young people to watch, explore and critically engage with the arts. We also run Company of Elders, a resident performance company of dancers aged over 60 who rehearse with renowned artists to make new work for public performances locally, nationally and internationally.     Sadler’s Wells is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.       www.sadlerswells.com     Stay up to date with everything Sadler’s Wells on social media      Facebook: @SadlersWells      Twitter: @Sadlers_Wells      Instagram: @sadlers_wells      YouTube: Sadler’s Wells Theatre

[Jan McNulty]

And another press release specifically about Quadrophenia:

 

PRESS RELEASE 25 June 2024 Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK announce the world premiere of PETE TOWNSHEND’S QUADROPHENIA, A MOD BALLET (photo credit Johan Persson)  @quadmodballet Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK are delighted to announce the world premiere of Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet. In 1973, guitar smashing rock genius Pete Townshend wrote QUADROPHENIA. Recorded by The Who - it quickly became an iconic and multi-million selling album. Quadrophenia defined a generation and in 1979 inspired the cult classic feature film of the same name. Now it’s back – this time as an explosive dance production - Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet - with a cast of exceptional dancers, introducing new audiences to troubled mod Jimmy’s story while remaining true in spirit to the much-loved original. Quadrophenia is steeped in the mythology of the 1960s - sharp suits, soul music, vespas and parkas but its themes of lost youth, rebellion, the search for belonging and hunger for social change are just as urgent today. Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet will tour to Plymouth Theatre Royal (28 May - 1 June 2025), Edinburgh Festival Theatre (10 - 14 June 2025) and the Mayflower, Southampton (18 - 21 June 2025) before having its official opening at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London (24 June - 13 July 2025) and then visiting The Lowry, Salford (15 - 19 July 2025). A rich, orchestral arrangement of the album by Rachel Fuller and Martin Batchelar, first heard in concert version at The Royal Albert Hall and recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is the backdrop for this brand new production.  Choreographer Paul Roberts and Director Rob Ashford bring together some of the UK’s finest creative talent from the worlds of music, theatre, film and dance. With original costumes by renowned British fashion house Paul Smith and Natalie Pryce, projection by Nick Hillel and lighting design by Fabiana Piccioli. The creative team bring new dimensions to the raw energy and emotion of one of the UK’s most iconic rock albums. Rising star Paris Fitzpatrick will perform the iconic lead role of Jimmy. Paris won Outstanding Male Modern Performance for his Romeo in New Adventures’ recent production of Romeo and Juliet at the National Dance Awards earlier this month. Pete Townshend said: ‘QUADROPHENIA is the only Who album that I solely composed and produced (1973) and the movie that followed in 1979 launched the careers of some of the finest young actors of the time. In 2016 Rachel Fuller agreed to create an orchestral score of the album. When I first heard a demo of this version, without vocals, my first thought was that it would make a powerfully rhythmic and emotionally engaging ballet. Workshopped in 2023, that thought became a reality and I knew we had something that would resonate with new audiences, and also bring joy, as it had in its other iterations for decades. The themes of young people growing up in difficult times are still so relevant. It’s going to be poignant, tender and poetic and epic.’ Sir Alistair Spalding CBE, Artistic Director and Co-CEO of Sadler’s Wells, said ‘It's an honour for Sadler’s Wells to be a collaborator and lead producer of this unique production. Quadrophenia is a story crying out to be told through dance and with this talented creative team we can be sure that we can achieve its full potential. Working closely with Pete Townshend and his team and our regular collaborator Universal Music UK we can each bring our particular skills and knowledge to make this classic of The Who's discography a powerful and meaningful story for our time.’ David Joseph, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music UK, said: ‘When Rachel and Pete came to me with the idea of a Quadrophenia ballet with extraordinary new arrangements, it was probably one of the easiest ‘we’re in’ moments I’ve had. We’ve had a long-standing relationship with Alistair and the Sadler’s Wells team so they were the obvious next call, and they just got it immediately. Our only conditions for this project were artistic and creative excellence, which each partner has delivered in abundance. Finally, I must thank Paul Roberts, whose genius has lifted the whole production into something we are all so proud of.’ Paul Roberts said: 'Quadrophenia has already inspired me so much, bringing its legacy forward and discovering its voice in movement created so much emotive energy and passion every time we entered the workshop room. I know that taking our next big step into rehearsals will stimulate so much more excitement and our generous, brilliant, madly talented young cast offer nothing but vitality to this iconic story. I can’t wait!’ Rob Ashford said:’I’m excited at the idea of art forms evolving and emerging into new territory. That’s certainly what’s happening with Quadrophenia. I’m thrilled to collaborate with these brilliant artists on this dance /theatre piece. The music is timeless in its orchestral form and makes the perfect backdrop as we tell the story of Jimmy, and evoke a world of Mods and Rockers.’  Listings Information Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK present Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet Writer Pete Townshend Choreographer Paul Roberts Director Rob Ashford Orchestration Rachel Fuller and Martin Batchelar Costume Design Paul Smith, Natalie Pryce Projection Nick Hillel Lighting Design Fabiana Piccioli modballet.com Tour schedule Plymouth, Theatre Royal 28 May - 1 June 2025  General on sale 29 August https://theatreroyal.com/   Edinburgh, Festival Theatre 10 June - 14 June 2025 General on sale 5 July https://www.capitaltheatres.com/   Southampton, Mayflower Theatre 18 June - 21 June 2025 General on sale 5 July https://www.mayflower.org.uk/   London, Sadler's Wells Theatre 24 June - 13 July 2025  Press Night: 25 June 2025 General on sale 5 July https://www.sadlerswells.com/ Salford, Lowry 15 July - 19 July 2025 General on sale 28 June https://thelowry.com/ NOTES TO EDITORS BIOGRAPHIES  Pete Townshend -  original story, music and lyrics Founding member of THE WHO - Pete is a legendary powerhouse musician. One of the most celebrated guitarists, singers, songwriters and musical minds of our time, Townsend’s works with The Who and other projects have earned him global critical acclaim. A clever wordsmith and writer, the marriage of his lyrics with his extraordinary musical talent have resulted in a lifetime of ground-breaking musical achievement. Paul Smith  Paul Smith is Britain’s leading independent design company. Paul Smith champions positivity, curiosity and creativity. These qualities underpin every Paul Smith design, whether it’s a shirt, a shop or a special collaboration.   Paul Smith is a British company with a global outlook. What began in a small, 3 x 3 metre shop in Nottingham, England in 1970 has grown to 130 shops and counting around the world, with locations in over 60 countries. Paul Roberts - choreographer Award winning director and choreographer Paul Roberts has over 25 years experience across dance, theatre, music and TV. Creative to the core, Paul's unique dance language fuses commercial style with classical technique. He has collaborated with major artists and dancers across the world including; Harry Styles, The Spice Girls, Katy Perry, Diana Ross, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Sir Paul McCartney, Prince, Alicia Keys, Sam Smith and Billie Piper. Rob Ashford - director Rob Ashford is a Tony, Emmy, Olivier, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Award winning Director and Choreographer. His London credits include a West End season with Kenneth  Branagh including The Winters Tale, Romeo & Juliet, and The Entertainer; Parade, A Streetcar Named Desire, and Anna Christie at The Donmar; Guys & Dolls, Evita, Shrekand Frozen; and Macbeth at Manchester International Festival. His Broadway credits include Cat On A Hot Tin Roof, Frozen, How To Succeed In Business, Promises, Promises, Evita, John Water’s Cry Baby, Wedding Singer, and Thoroughly Modern Millie. Television credits include The Academy Awards, The Tony Awards, The Kennedy Center Honors, Sound of Music Live and Peter Pan Live. Opera productions include ENO, La Scala, Chatelet,  Chicago Lyric, Houston Grand, and LA Opera. Rachel Fuller - orchestrator and book writer A classically trained pianist, composer and arranger Rachel Fuller’s work spans film, television, music and theatre. Selected credits include debut album Cigarettes and Housework (Universal Music);  In The Attic - a live streamed music chat show that toured Europe and the US;  a new musical The Seeker, based on the Hermann Hesse novel Siddhartha, narrated by Christopher Plummer and featuring sir Elton John, Pete Townshend, Emeli Sande and more; and an original ballet ‘BEE’ - currently in co-production with The Royal Opera House Learning and Participation programme. BEE is also being released as an interactive children’s book with music from the ballet later this autumn. Nick Hillel - projection designer Yeast Culture, founded by Nick Hillel, creates original and immersive visuals and projection for live performance and installations. The award-winning company works across artforms blending film, animation, documentary, set design and projection mapping. Recently, Yeast Culture worked with the London Symphony Orchestra and director Peter Sellars on Janáček’s Cunning Little Vixen and Ligeti's Le Grand Macabre. Other collaborations include Re_Rite gallery installation with the Philharmonia Orchestra, Boy Blue Entertainment’s The Five and The Prophecy of Prana and Akram Khan’s Jungle Book Reimagined and Desh.  Natalie Pryce - costume designer Set and costume design credits for theatre include: Playing Shakespeare with Deutsche Bank Romeo and Juliet at Shakespeare's Globe, The Architect for Greenwich + Docklands International Festival; August in England at the Bush; Of The Cut at the Young Vic; The Gift at RADA; SAMSKARA at the Yard; Red Velvet at RADA; 846 Live at Theatre Royal Stratford East; Me for the World at the Young Vic; Ducklings at the Royal Exchange; Not Now, Bernard at the Unicorn.    Costume design credits for theatre include: Kyoto at the RSC; 42 Balloons at the Lowry; Vanya at Richmond and Duke of York's Theatre; Newsies at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre; Hamlet at Bristol Old Vic; A Number at the Old Vic; Old Bridge at the Bush; White Noise at the Bridge; Is God Is at the Royal Court; Anna X in the West End; Tales of the Turntable for Zoonation; and The Winter’s Tale (as Costume Supervisor) at Shakespeare’s Globe.   As a designer Natalie has a deep passion for creation, she relishes embracing new challenges and opportunities which help her to grow, develop her practice and outlook as a creative.  Black British Theatre Award Winner for Costume Design Recognition 2020. Best Revival Oliver Award Winner 2024 for Vanya. Fabiana Piccioli - lighting designer Currently based in Rome, Fabiana Piccioli performed as a dancer in Europe, and worked in production management at the Romaeuropa Festival, before joining Akram Khan Company as Technical Director and Lighting Designer (2005–2013).    A freelance lighting and set designer since 2014, she has created work for the Royal Opera House, Paris Opéra Ballet, Comédie Française, Teatro La Scala, Royal Ballet of Flanders, English National Ballet, Rambert Dance Company, Ballets de Monte-Carlo, Royal Court, and Theatre de la Ville, and collaborated with choreographers including Akram Khan, Kim Brandstrup, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, Damien Jalet, Gregory Maqoma, Imre & Marne van Opstal; theatre directors Romeo Castellucci, Katie Mitchell, Lisaboa Houbrechts, Guy Cassiers; and opera directors Oliver Mears, Antony McDonald, John Fulljames and Philipp Himmelmann.  Fabiana has won three Knight of Illumination Awards, including two for dance: iTMOi by Akram Khan and Echoes by Aakash Odedra; and one for opera: Eugene Onegin by Oliver Mears.  Paris Fitzpatrick - performer / Jimmy Paris completed his professional dance training at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts. Following graduation in 2015, he spent a year dancing and touring with Northern Ballet before going on to join New Adventures in 2017.   During his time with New Adventures Paris has performed extensively in many of the company's works including Matthew Bourne’s Early Adventures (UK and International Tour, 2017), played The Angel in Cinderella (UK and International Tour, 2017-19), original Romeo in Matthew Bourne's Romeo + Juliet (UK Tour, 2019), created the role of Bob in The Midnight Bell (UK Tour, 2021), Angelo in The Car Man (Royal Albert Hall 2022), Carabosse/Caradoc and Count Lilac in Sleeping Beauty (UK and International Tour 2022/23), and most recently reprised the role of Romeo in Romeo + Juliet (UK and International Tour 2023/24).  Another career highlight of Paris's was joining BalletBoyz for their UK tour of Deluxe in 2022.  Paris was also the dance category nominee for The Times Breakthrough Award at the South Bank Sky Arts Awards in 2020, nominated for Outstanding Male Modern Performance at the National Dance Awards 2022 , nominated for Best Male Dancer and again for Outstanding Male Modern Performance which he then went on to win at the National Dance Awards 2024.    About Universal Music Universal Music is the UK’s leading music company, home to successful artists from across the musical spectrum. Alongside the labels Polydor, Decca, Island, EMI, Capitol and 0207 Def Jam, its businesses include Abbey Road, the world’s most famous recording studio, and Mercury Studios, a music-first content studio.   Universal Music UK is passionate about nurturing and inspiring the next generation of talent and is a founding partner of East London Arts & Music (ELAM), the free school for 16-19-year-olds set up in 2014 by Will Kennard – one half of EMI artists Chase & Status – with a mission to increase access routes into the creative industries. In 2020, the company also launched its Creative Differences project, led by the publication of the first handbook for embracing neurodiversity in the creative industries.  Universal Music UK is a division of Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising and audio-visual content. Featuring the most comprehensive catalogue of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world.  Committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship, UMG fosters the development of services, platforms, and business models in order to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for our artists and create new experiences for fans.   For more information, visit www.universalmusic.com.     About Sadler’s Wells       Sadler's Wells is a world-leading dance organisation. We strive to make and share dance that inspires us all. Our acclaimed year-round programme spans dance of every kind, from contemporary to flamenco, Bollywood to ballet, salsa to street dance and tango to tap.     We commission, produce and present more dance than any other organisation in the world. Since 2005, we have helped to bring more than 200 new dance works to the stage, embracing both the popular and the unknown. Our acclaimed productions tour the world. Since 2005 we’ve produced 64 new full-length works and performed to audiences of more than two million, touring to 51 countries.     Each year, over half a million people visit our three London theatres - Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Lilian Baylis Studio and Peacock Theatre. Millions more attend our touring productions nationally and internationally or explore our digital platforms, including Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage.    Sadler’s Wells East    In 2024 we’re opening a fourth London venue in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Sadler’s Wells East will house a 550-seat mid-scale theatre, as well as facilities for the new Rose Choreographic School and the hip hop theatre training centre, Academy Breakin’ Convention.      Sadler’s Wells East joins the rich cultural heritage of Stratford, opening in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park as part of the East Bank development alongside the BBC, UAL’s London College of Fashion, UCL and the V&A. Sadler’s Wells East will support artist development and training, and the creation of new work. It will build the infrastructure for dance and make it accessible to more people. Sadler’s Wells East will house a flexible theatre presenting a wide variety of dance performances. Community will be at the heart of Sadler’s Wells East with a large open foyer that can be used by everyone as a meeting or performance space. There will also be dance studios and world-class dance facilities for dancemakers to train, create and rehearse productions.   Supporting artists   Supporting artists is at the heart of our work. We have associate artists and companies, which nurture some of the most exciting talent working in dance today. We host the National Youth Dance Company, which draws together some of the brightest young dancers from across the country. Sadler’s Wells Breakin' Convention runs professional development programmes to champion and develop the world’s best hip hop artists, as well as producing, programming and touring groundbreaking hip hop performances.     Learning and community links   Around 30,000 people take part in our learning and engagement programmes every year. We support schools local to our theatres in Islington and Stratford, designing experiences for children and young people to watch, explore and critically engage with the arts. We also run Company of Elders, a resident performance company of dancers aged over 60 who rehearse with renowned artists to make new work for public performances locally, nationally and internationally.     Sadler’s Wells is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.     www.sadlerswells.com       Stay up to date with everything Sadler’s Wells on social media      Facebook: @SadlersWells      Twitter: @Sadlers_Wells      Instagram: @sadlers_wells      YouTube: Sadler’s Wells Theatre

[bridiem]

What next?! Tommy? Saturday Night Fever? (Or maybe these have already been done? Don't know.) I suppose the options are endless if ballet wants to go down this route.

 

I think the only show in this mode that might tempt me would be a ballet set to Kate Bush.

[Jan McNulty]

5 minutes ago, bridiem said:

What next?! Tommy? Saturday Night Fever? (Or maybe these have already been done? Don't know.) I suppose the options are endless if ballet wants to go down this route.

 

I think the only show in this mode that might tempt me would be a ballet set to Kate Bush.

 

 

Or a Wuthering Heights Day!

 

(28th July 2024 - Rimrose Valley Country Park - 11:00 - 13:00) 

[Peanut68]

I must say this was the founding basis of Matthew Bournes work really wasn’t it originally called - ‘Adventures in Motion Pictures’ or similar? And bringing dance interpretations of previous movie storylines? 
I’m also feeling smugly predictive:- about 6 years ago now I was chatting with a dance teacher and said I reckoned Matthew Bourne should do a collaboration with The Who / Pete Townsend to create a dance version of Quadrophenia! I was envisioning big production in RAH complete with scooters & big wheel & the such! 

I must say once ‘Black Sabbath - the Ballet’ was announced I did think it was surely just a matter of time that we got many more such works using a rock score. Not really my cup of tea (unless also great dramatic story lines to accompany - which Quadrophenia of course does have) but I’m all for it if it provides more work for British dancers & musicians/theatres, gets bums on seats, brings in people new to ballet & helps add to the coffers by way of licensing out the work & with all the merchandise opportunities!!

Just today a friend who went to ‘Black Sabbath - the ballet’ was saying how they could’ve made more money as they sold out of T-Shirts with lord clamouring to buy them! (and she also bought a new to ballet audience member husband who has now seen 2 more ballets with more shows booked!) So, this stuff is to be celebrated! 
Limitless options to explore….and sure fire bankable if smart top parties (composers/companies/

choreographers/designers etc) involved!

Edited Tuesday at 14:48 by Peanut68

[Scheherezade]

And a slightly different slant, but popular culture nonetheless, wasn’t it Rambert who did a take on Peaky Blinders not too long ago?

[Jan McNulty]

Just now, Scheherezade said:

And a slightly different slant, but popular culture nonetheless, wasn’t it Rambert who did a take on Peaky Blinders not too long ago?

 

Yes it was.

[Odyssey]

Message in a Bottle is another example of what I have seen described elsewhere as as ‘dance storytelling’. Personally, I am receptive to such initiatives. 

[Jan McNulty]

Just now, Odyssey said:

Message in a Bottle is another example of what I have seen described elsewhere as as ‘dance storytelling’. Personally, I am receptive to such initiatives. 

 

I'm more excited about this (and Message in a Bottle) than I was about Black Sabbath mainly due to musical preference.