Sadler’s Wells has revealed its dynamic 2026 programme, promising an unmissable year of dance in London and beyond. Bringing together international stars, global collaborations, innovative premieres, and diverse voices, this season celebrates the full spectrum of dance on Sadler’s Wells’ iconic stages.
Sir Alistair Spalding CBE, Artistic Director and Co-Chief Executive, emphasises the array of talent from Brazil, Cuba, the Netherlands, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and the United States, marking Sadler’s Wells as a true beacon of global dance.
Below you’ll find each key event and show listed distinctly, making it easy to explore what’s on and when.
San Francisco Ballet: Mere Mortals
- When: September 2026, Sadler’s Wells Theatre
- Details: San Francisco Ballet returns to London for the first time since 2019 with their acclaimed production, Mere Mortals. Choreographed by Aszure Barton, this ground-breaking work merges dance with a live performance from celebrated British electronic producer and DJ Floating Points. This marks the company’s first UK visit since Tamara Rojo became Artistic Director.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
- When: September 2026, Sadler’s Wells Theatre
- Details: One of America’s most influential dance companies returns under new Artistic Director Alicia Graf Mack. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater brings two unique programmes, each showcasing the company’s inspiring repertory including the classic masterpiece Revelations.
Flamenco Festival 2026
- When: June 2026, Sadler’s Wells Theatre & Sadler’s Wells East
- Details: The Flamenco Festival returns for a fortnight featuring legendary artists and vibrant new talent. The line-up includes:
- Eva Yerbabuena
- Manuel Liñán
- Israel Galván (La Edad de Oro – 20th Anniversary special)
- Rocío Molina (Calentamiento, UK premiere)
- Ballet Flamenco de Andalucía (Tierra Bendita)
- Compañía de Danza Jesús Carmona (UnYdos)
- Compañía Rafaela Carrasco (CREAVIVA, UK premiere)
- Gala Flamenca with Yerbabuena, Liñán, El Farru, and Juan Tomás de la Molía
- Gerardo Núñez, Antonio Rey, Álvaro Martinete and Olga Pericet (Night of the Guitar, UK premiere)
- Compañía María Moreno (MAGNIFICAT, UK premiere)
- Compañía Marco Flores (Rayuela, UK premiere)
Each show offers a unique approach to flamenco, from classic tradition to bold innovation.
Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures: Cinderella
- When: Christmas 2026, Sadler’s Wells Theatre
- Details: Matthew Bourne’s celebrated production of Cinderella returns. Set in wartime London, this Olivier Award-winning adaptation features the evocative score of Prokofiev and remarkable set design by Lez Brotherston.
London City Ballet: Firebird – A Double Bill
- When: October 2026, Sadler’s Wells Theatre
- Details: The revitalised London City Ballet presents Firebird – A Double Bill:
- John Neumeier’s Ghost Light, featuring guest artist Alina Cojocaru
- Glen Tetley’s Firebird, revived to celebrate the choreographer’s centenary.
Phoenix Dance Theatre: Interplay
- When: 24–27 June 2026, Sadler’s Wells East
- Details: Leeds-based Phoenix Dance Theatre returns after a sell-out 2025 season, presenting a mixed bill from leading international choreographers. Interplay focuses on creative collaboration and the fusion of artistic voices.
Theatre-Rites & Gregory Maqoma: Return to the Forest
- When: 28–30 May 2026, Sadler’s Wells East
- Details: Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Theatre-Rites teams up with acclaimed South African choreographer Gregory Maqoma. This immersive family production, featuring magical puppetry by Sue Buckmaster, whisks audiences from a museum to a wonder-filled forest. Recommended for ages 8+.
Marco da Silva Ferreira: Fcking Future*
- When: 4–6 June 2026, Sadler’s Wells East
- Details: Portuguese choreographer (and 2025 Rose International Dance Prize finalist) Marco da Silva Ferreira returns with this UK premiere. The physical, genre-defying piece unpacks over-militarisation and toxic masculinity in society. Recommended for ages 12+.
Jefta van Dinther: REMACHINE
- When: 14–16 May 2026, Sadler’s Wells East
- Details: Dutch-Swedish choreographer Jefta van Dinther and composer Anna von Hausswolff collaborate on REMACHINE, exploring humans, technology, and ritual through six dancers in a visually arresting, otherworldly performance.
Carlos Acosta & Acosta Danza Yunior Company: Next Generation
- When: 17–20 June 2026, Sadler’s Wells East
- Details: Carlos Acosta presents the latest graduates from his Cuban Dance Academy in a quadruple bill with works from Susana Pous, Juliano Nunes, Kit Holder and Didy Veldman. This show bursts with Cuban artistry and international flair.
Alice Ripoll with Hiltinho Fantástico: PUFF
- When: 13–14 May 2026, Lilian Baylis Studio
- Details: In her Sadler’s Wells debut, Brazilian choreographer Alice Ripoll explores disguise and cultural tradition through passinho and other urban dance styles from Rio. Featuring performer Hiltinho Fantástico, PUFF is a fast-moving meditation on disappearance and hidden stories.
Dance Digital Festival
- When: 5–7 June 2026, Lilian Baylis Studio
- Details: Sadler’s Wells launches its first-ever film festival dedicated to dance in digital formats. With screenings, installations, Q&As, and expert talks, Dance Digital Festival celebrates how screens have become a vital stage for innovative choreography and global collaboration.
This ambitious and diverse line-up confirms Sadler’s Wells’ place at the forefront of global dance. The 2026 season is a celebration of collaboration, culture, and creativity—offering something for every dance lover.