21 December 2021
As we approach the festive season, we’ve rounded up our top picks for live and streaming dance to keep you busy over the Christmas holidays. Itching to get outside? Book your place at a live performance featuring world-renowned dance companies from around the UK. If you’d rather stay at home and enjoy dance from the comfort of your own sofa, check out one of the streaming offerings below.
Streaming Performances
Giselle, The Royal Ballet
A classic rendition of one of the world’s greatest Romantic ballet’s, Giselle is a story of love and betrayal, set against the contrasting backdrops of Act I’s simple German village and the ethereal moonlit forest of Act II. Rich in detail and hauntingly atmospheric, Peter Wright and The Royal Ballet bring us this unmissable performance that will have you longing for the beauty of the Romantic era. Streaming now until 2 January 2022.
Watch the trailer below.
The Little Match Girl, Sadler's Wells
Sit down with the whole family and enter the world of Hans Christian Andersen this Christmas with The Little Match Girl. Specially filmed for Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage, this one of a kind performance is beautifully reimagined classic tale of magic, family, and friendship. Streaming both in standard and audio described versions now until 4 January 2022.
Watch the trailer below.
SBTV, Scottish Ballet
Not sure what you’re looking for? Scottish Ballet’s digital dance hub, SBTV, is perfect if you want to immerse yourself in a wide variety of dance. Settle in this Christmas with unique dance films including the innovative Tremble, a joyful exploration of movement set in an abstract dining room, from co-choreographers Jessica Wright and Morgann Runacre-Temple or get an inside look at how the company dancers train with a live streamed dance class. Streaming now.
Watch Tremble below.
Every Map Has a Scale (Chapter 2), Scottish Dance Theatre
Experimental and steeped with creative energy, Every Map Has a Scale (Chapter 2) is a collaborative dance film from Scottish Dance Theatre and Dundee Rep, featuring dancers from all around the city of Dundee. Firmly rooted in local Scottish community dance, this film ‘weaves a choreographic tapestry’ with dancers ranging between the ages of 1 and 63. Delve into the depths of Dundee and enjoy these captivating dance duets this Christmas. Streaming now until 31 December 2021.
Watch the trailer below.
Live Performances
Nutcracker, English National Ballet
Perhaps the most notable Christmas ballet of the modern era, let Tschikovsky’s iconic score whisk you away this festive season in English National Ballet’s annual production of Nutcracker. A Christmas delight for the entire family, book your place and enter the world of Edwardian London filled with magic, joy, and exquisite dancing. Booking open now for performances at London Coliseum from 16 December 2021 - 18 January 2022.
Watch the trailer below.
The Snowman, Sadler's Wells
Get ready to experience a wave of nostalgia with the magical tale of The Snowman. Based on Raymond Briggs’ beloved book, this enchanting new production is a spellbinding blend of dance, live music and pure spectacle. Brought to you by Birmingham Repertory Theatre in collaboration with Sadler’s Wells, this enthralling adaptation, with choreography from Robert North, will keep your whole family entertained this winter. Booking open now for performances at Peacock Theatre from 1 December 2021 - 2 January 2022.
Watch the trailer below.
The Little Prince, The Place
Discover the story of The Little Prince with Luca Silvestrini’s imaginative interpretation of the classic French tale of wonder and friendship, live this December at The Place Theatre. Nominated for Best Modern Choreography at the National Dance Awards 2021 and performed by the talented artists of Silvestrini’s Protein dance company, this modern production brings together dance, humour, and spoken word to create a spectacular show for both adults and children. Booking now open from performances from 18 December - 24 December 2021.
Watch the trailer below.
A Chorus Line, Curve Theatre
In the mood for musical theatre? Head to New York City in the bustling 1970s with a brand-new performance of A Chorus Line - featuring Society Patron, Adam Cooper. Directed by Nikolai Foster, marvel at this heart-wrenching story, rich with electrifying choreography from Ellen Kane and unforgettable songs from the original Broadway production. Booking open now for performances at Curve Theatre from 3 December 2021 - 31 December 2021.
Watch the trailer below.
Film
West Side Story (2021)
A fresh take on the 1961 original, get ready to snap your fingers and immerse yourself in the world of the Jets and the Sharks with Steven Spielberg’s reimagined West Side Story. Inspired by Shakespeare’s iconic Romeo and Juliet, this adaptation features bold choreography from Justin Peck (Carousel), bringing together rich elements of jazz, ballet, and latin american dance. In cinemas now.
Watch the trailer below.