The first performance programme and opening timetable for Sadler's Wells new, fourth, theatre – Sadler’s Wells East have now been announced. Tickets will go on public sale on 25 September 2024.
Based in East Bank, Stratford, east London, it represents a major new chapter for Sadler’s Wells and opens up many new opportunities for the UK, local and international dance sector, artists, and audiences.
An immersive rave, voguing and an adaptation of James Baldwin’s novel Giovanni’s Room are all part of the inaugural season for Sadler’s Wells East, the new multimillion pound dance outpost that opens next February.
The institution’s artistic director, Sir Alistair Spalding, who also leads the original Sadler’s Wells, said he wants the space to be an accessible destination “without any barriers”, especially for those from the local community of east London, which is one of the most diverse in the UK.
Spalding has previously described the new centre as the “National Theatre of the dance world” and said: “If we’re going to go there, then we have to engage with the community … There’s a big South Asian community. There’s a big community of hip-hop lovers, there’s also people who love ballet.”
Sadler’s Wells East is part of the £1.1bn East Bank development, which includes the BBC Music Studios, London College of Fashion, UAL, University College London East and V&A East which has already announced its inaugural exhibition: a deep dive into Black British music.
The first show in February 2025 will be Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu’s Our Mighty Groove featuring a cast from east London.
See the complete launch programme here.
