Ballet Black, a company known for celebrating black and Asian ballet dancers, is currently marking its 25th anniversary. Founded a quarter of a century ago, the company has significantly contributed to promoting diversity within the UK ballet scene. The company has embarked on an autumn tour, which includes performances at Sadler’s Wells in London, running until 17 October, and continuing across the UK until 12 November.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Ballet Black is showcasing a double bill that includes the revival of Ingoma, choreographed by Mthuthuzeli November. This piece, which explores the 1946 South African miners’ strike, won the Olivier award for best new dance production in 2020. The tour also features …all towards hope by Hope Boykin, a new piece commissioned for this milestone year, further highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and representation in the arts.
Celebrating 25 Years of Ballet Black
The company’s 25th anniversary tour is a reflection of its rich history and contribution to the arts. Ballet Black’s repertoire over the years has included works like Click! by Sophie Laplane and Red Riding Hood by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa. The company’s performances at venues such as the Barbican and the Linbury Theatre have showcased their diverse range of productions and their ability to captivate audiences with narratives that resonate on both personal and historical levels.
The current tour not only celebrates the company’s past achievements but also its ongoing mission to make ballet more inclusive. By featuring diverse dancers and choreographers, Ballet Black continues to challenge the traditional norms of ballet and provide opportunities for underrepresented talent. This initiative is an inspiring example for the arts industry, which often struggles with diversity and inclusion.
What this means for newcomers
For newcomers to the UK, Ballet Black’s work exemplifies the accessible and diverse cultural landscape that the country offers. Cultural events, like the Ballet Black tour, provide a unique opportunity to explore the arts scene in the UK. While many cultural activities are accessible, it’s essential to understand what is free and what is not. For example, while national museum collections are free, temporary exhibitions may require a ticket.
Newcomers can learn more about the UK’s cultural offerings by visiting local libraries, which are free to join and provide a wealth of information on local events. Additionally, schemes like the National Theatre’s 16-25 tickets and the £5 standing tickets at Shakespeare’s Globe offer affordable ways to experience the arts. You can find more ways to engage with UK culture in our UK culture guide for newcomers.
What you should do
- Explore affordable cultural events: Take advantage of discounted theatre tickets and free museum entries to immerse yourself in the UK’s vibrant arts scene. Schemes like the National Theatre’s offers make it possible to enjoy high-quality performances without a hefty price tag.
- Join your local library: Libraries provide free access to cultural resources and event listings. Joining is simple and requires just a visit with proof of address.
- Plan your cultural outings: Book tickets for popular performances and museum slots in advance, especially for free entry sites, to ensure you don’t miss out on cultural events that interest you.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I see Ballet Black perform during their tour?
Ballet Black’s tour includes performances at Sadler’s Wells in London until 17 October and continues across other UK venues until 12 November.
Are there affordable ways to see theatre in the UK?
Yes. Schemes like the National Theatre’s 16-25 tickets and the £5 standing tickets at Shakespeare’s Globe provide affordable options for theatre enthusiasts.
Is entry to UK national museums free?
Entry to the permanent collections at national museums in the UK is free since December 2001. However, temporary exhibitions usually require a paid ticket.
Do I need a TV Licence for streaming services?
A TV Licence is required for using BBC iPlayer, even for catch-up. Other streaming services like Netflix do not require a licence unless you watch live broadcasts.
Source: Guardian Culture: read the original
