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Inspiration • August 28th, 2026
|Excitement is building in Leeds as Northern Ballet prepares to showcase Three Short Ballets, a captivating performance featuring a blend of contemporary and classic dance. Set to take place at the Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre from Friday 18 to Saturday 26 September 2026, this event promises to be a highlight of the cultural calendar. Notably, there will be an exclusive Under 30s Night on Tuesday 22 September, making it accessible for younger audiences to experience the beauty of ballet.
Featured Works
Three Short Ballets will present a triple-bill of short works that highlight the creativity of some of the most exciting choreographers in the dance world today. The programme includes:
Grandes Études - A world premiere by Tiler Peck, a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, known for her innovative choreography.
Five Tangos - This piece, created by renowned Dutch choreographer Hans van Manen, showcases a dynamic fusion of classical ballet and the passionate movements of Argentine tango, set to music by Astor Piazzolla.
Fools - A return of the Olivier Award-nominated work by Mthuthuzeli November, inspired by themes of love and rivalry, drawing from R.L. Peteni's novel Hill of Fools and Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet.
Northern Ballet Dancers in rehearsal for Grandes Études by Tiler Peck. Photo by Emily Spencer.
Northern Ballet Dancer Miguel Teixeira in rehearsal for Five Tangos. Photo by Emily Spencer.Under 30s Night
On 22 September, Northern Ballet will host a special performance aimed at those aged 30 and under. This event has proven to be a sell-out in previous years, offering an affordable way for younger audiences to enjoy ballet. Tickets for the Under 30s Night are priced at just £10.25 and include a free programme and a complimentary drink, making it an inviting evening for those new to ballet or seasoned fans alike.
About the Dancers and Choreographers
The performers in Three Short Ballets are part of Northern Ballet’s talented company of dancers, who are known for their versatility and skill. Artistic Director Federico Bonelli leads the company in its mission to make ballet accessible to a wider audience, showcasing not just full-length ballets but also shorter works that can be enjoyed in a single evening.
Each piece in this programme has its unique flair:
Grandes Études will feature live music played by virtuoso concert pianist Rose McLachlan, adding a rich auditory experience to the visual spectacle.
Fools tells a dramatic story of star-crossed lovers caught in conflict, highlighting Northern Ballet's commitment to storytelling through dance.
Five Tangos explores the complexities of attraction and relationships through the vibrant lens of tango, inviting audiences to not just watch but feel the rhythm of the dance.
The Venue
The Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre, located in Leeds, is known for hosting a variety of performances, making it an ideal venue for Three Short Ballets. The theatre's intimate setting allows audiences to experience the emotion and artistry of ballet up close.
With its exciting mix of choreography and engaging performances, Three Short Ballets is set to be a significant event for both ballet lovers and newcomers in Leeds this September. Whether attending the exclusive Under 30s Night or another performance, audiences are sure to be captivated by the creativity and talent on display. This is an opportunity not to be missed for anyone interested in the arts in Yorkshire.
