Ministry of Sound Hosts 'Ballet Nights' in London and The Royal Ballet Performs at Jacob’s Pillow in the US

Ministry of Sound Hosts 'Ballet Nights' in London

On May 31, 2024, London’s renowned Ministry of Sound club will host 'Ballet Nights,' an innovative event blending ballet and contemporary dance. Initiated by former Scottish Ballet soloist and choreographer Jamiel Devernay-Laurence, 'Ballet Nights' typically runs in a Canary Wharf theatre but is now shifting to the club scene to reach younger audiences.

The evening will feature performances by leading ballet dancers, including Royal Ballet’s Joshua Junker and acclaimed choreographer James Cousins. The event will showcase various acts, from acrobatic routines to DJ performances, set to music from artists like Ben Frost and Floating Points. Versatile performers such as Kennedy Junior Muntanga and former Wayne McGregor dancers James Pett and Travis Clausen-Knight will also make appearances.

The attendees can enjoy the clubbing experience post-show with performances from techno DJ Danny Avila. The initiative aims to offer a fresh alternative to traditional ballet presentations, with hopes of expanding job opportunities within the dance industry.

The Royal Ballet at Jacob’s Pillow in the US

The Royal Ballet will perform at Jacob’s Pillow in Becket, Massachusetts, from July 3 to 7, 2024. This marks the company's first visit to the renowned summer dance festival and its only U.S. appearance this year.

Directed by Kevin O’Hare, The Royal Ballet will present performances on both the outdoor Henry J. Leir Stage and indoor Ted Shawn Theatre. The outdoor program includes iconic solos and pas de deux, while the indoor performances feature modern works like Pam Tanowitz's "Secret Things," Christopher Wheeldon’s "For Four," and a world premiere by Wayne McGregor.

The residency will also include a premiere by McGregor performed by students from the School at Jacob’s Pillow, an exhibit, a Pillow talk session, and a film screening of the company's "Romeo and Juliet." Notable dancers like Natalia Osipova and Sarah Lamb will also be part of the event.

Tickets are already selling fast for this rare U.S. appearance by The Royal Ballet, which has not toured the States since 2015 due to funding cuts and the pandemic.