London Ballet Tickets 2024-2025
Discover the breathtaking variety of ballet in London, performed by some of the most prestigious companies in the world. The West End is the place to be if you want to watch incredible musicals in London, but you can also enjoy gorgeous dance performances in the capital. Why not try the London Coliseum's acclaimed productions, with music by Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky? Or head to the Peacock Theatre and Sadler's Wells where dynamic new work that combines ballet and contemporary dance bursts off the stage.
Boasting stunning sets, beautiful dancing, and soaring music, ballet shows enchant thousands of theatregoers every year, and for many become a London Christmas theatre tradition to enjoy again and again. Book ballet tickets in London and inspire a joy of dance that will stay with you forever.
Boasting stunning sets, beautiful dancing, and soaring music, ballet shows enchant thousands of theatregoers every year, and for many become a London Christmas theatre tradition to enjoy again and again. Book ballet tickets in London and inspire a joy of dance that will stay with you forever.
1. The Nutcracker: a festive tradition for the whole family
The Nutcracker is a major part of the West End’s festive season, and a show that many theatregoers have enjoyed more than once. Featuring stunning costumes and set design, beautiful dances and Tchaikovsky's heart-stopping music, this enchanting story about a young girl’s adventures in the Land of Snow delivers a sprinkle of wintry magic that the whole family can enjoy!
2. Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake: the magical production returns
Almost 30 years since it changed the landscape of contemporary ballet, Olivier Award-winning choreographer Matthew Bourne’s groundbreaking production of Swan Lake is back in London for a strictly limited season. Famously breaking conventions with its all-male chorus of swans, this dance performance is Bourne at his most dynamic and thrilling - and a fantastic opening for anyone who wants to start watching more ballet.
3. Giselle: a bewitching tale of love, betrayal and revenge
Renowned choreographer Mary Skeaping’s haunting production returns to London for a limited season. French composer Adolphe Adams’ lush, emotionally-charged score accompanies the tragic story of a peasant girl who is deceived and betrayed by her lover, and is tempted into vengeance by an unholy sisterhood of jilted brides. This enthralling production is back in the capital for one week only, and remains a favourite amongst ballet fans.
4. The Snowman: A perfect introduction to dance theatre
Based on the beloved Raymond Briggs book and film, The Snowman is an enchanting journey that the youngest dance lovers can enjoy. As the titular Snowman whisks James away and the duo soar through the sky to the moving song “Walking in the Air”, young and old alike are held enraptured. This is the perfect ballet for families who want to introduce young children to the magic of theatre and endures as one of the most popular Christmas shows in London.
5. Duck Pond: circus and ballet collide for an inventive new show
Ballet and circus collide in spectacularly fun fashion at the Southbank Centre this Christmas with Circa’s unique take on Swan Lake. The troupe's inventive new version of Tchaikovsky’s classic features stunts, sequins, feathers and - best of all - flipper-wearing ducks! Fans of the original ballet should experience this exuberant and off-beat reimagining, which offers a great alternative to traditional family entertainment over the festive season.
6. Royal Albert Hall Nutcracker: a magical version of a festive classic
The world’s most famous Christmas ballet is even more spectacular in this special in-the-round production by Birmingham Royal Ballet. World-class dancing meets show-stopper sets and costumes as Tchaikovsky’s music rings out across London’s most iconic concert hall. Whether you’ve seen a version of Nutcracker once, twice, a hundred times… or this is your very first visit, the story of Clara’s adventures to the Land of Snow will take your breath away.
Where can I watch ballet in London?
The English National Ballet is one of the best dance companies in the world, with performances often taking place at the London Coliseum. Theatregoers can watch the company’s productions at the Royal Albert Hall and Sadler’s Wells as well. The latter, along with the Peacock Theatre, are also creative hubs for brand-new work by new and upcoming dance companies and choreographers.What is the most popular ballet show?
The Nutcracker is one of the most famous ballets ever produced, and has played a festive season at the London Coliseum for more than 50 years. It is so popular that is often sells out in advance, and theatregoers book ahead to make sure the whole family can enjoy this iconic show together.More recently, choreographer Matthew Bourne’s productions have become very popular. His distinctive style often blends dance with other influences such as musical theatre. Some of his most well-known works are Matthew Bourne's Nutcracker!, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake which famously had an all-male company of swans, and The Red Shoes.
What should I wear to the ballet in London?
There is no strict dress code for attending ballet shows in London, and you are welcome to wear whatever is most comfortable, including jeans.Some people like to attend in formal wear, especially if they are seeing an evening performance, gala, or visiting for a special occasion. You are likely to see a wide variety of outfits from casual to dresses and heels, especially for Christmas performances when children may enjoy dressing up.
What children’s ballet shows are in London in 2024-2025?
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre is one of the best dance shows for children and families, and a fantastic introduction to the genre for young theatregoers. Its familiar story and music, festive connotations and playful costumes make it an engaging choice and special experience.Other dance shows for kids in London often play limited seasons at the Peacock Theatre. These are fun, short versions of classics including Swan Lake and Cinderella.
