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English National Ballet The Forsythe Programme

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A solo performer in ballet shoes leaps into the air against a dark background, with a glitter ball shining above them.

Turn up the volume for the best of William Forsythe.


“Absolute joy.”
“First time I’ve danced in my seat at the ballet!”
“I will carry the bounce in my step and smile on my face for a long time.”
“The minute it ended I wanted it to start again.”
What the audiences thought.

In 2022, William Forsythe’s Playlist EP brought the house down.

Following an acclaimed run, the exhilarating piece is back to bring pure happiness into our lives! Combining ballet classicism and athleticism with the music of Barry White, Natalie Cole, Khalid and more, it will leave you “tipsy with delight” (Financial Times) and “cheering and breathless with joy” (The Observer). What’s not to like?

English National Ballet will also perform Herman Schmerman (Quintet), a classic showcase of Forsythe’s signature style not seen in the UK for nearly 30 years. Created for five dancers, the most intricate steps appear to spring naturally out of the performers, who relish the challenge of surprising the audience, and each other, at every turn. The electronic music soundtrack is by Thom Willems, a long time collaborator of Forsythe’s.

Completing this special programme will be your chance to experience a new work from the master choreographer. Rearray (London Edition 2025) is Forsythe’s newest iteration of his 2011 work, originally created for the legendary ballerina Sylvie Guillem and also adapted for Paris Opera Ballet. Forsythe will now continue to evolve this piece for English National Ballet, showcasing the trio of dancers’ skilful response to the work’s ever-changing structure.

Header image description: A solo performer leaps into the air against a dark background, with a glittering ball hanging above them. They are dressed in tight clothing that exposes their muscular legs and arms. Their feet are pointed, and they are wearing ballet shoes.

Header image © Jason Bell, Creative Direction Charlotte Wilkinson Studio

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Reviews for Playlist EP and The Forsythe Evening

Classical bravoura matched with pop songs
★★★★★ FINANCIAL TIMES

A night of pure kinetic pleasure THE GUARDIAN

Forsythe’s superb craftsmanship is delirious in its execution
★★★★★ THE TIMES

Deliriously gorgeous… a sugar rush straight to the heart that leaves you cheering and breathless with joy
THE OBSERVER

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