English National Ballet

Be treated to incredible sets, costumes, dance and music as the English National Ballet brings contemporary and classical works to the London stage with performances across the city.  

Whether fresh takes on traditional tales, world premieres of the latest works, or adapted performances for young children, the company's wide-ranging repertoire can be enjoyed by all. 

About the English National Ballet 

One of the world’s leading ballet companies, the English National Ballet has been delighting audiences in London and beyond since the early 1950s.  

What sets it apart from other companies has been its quest, from the very beginning, to take the artform to diverse audiences – whether introducing ballet to little ones with new takes on classic works, or taking it to the masses at Glastonbury.  

The English National Ballet shows 

Over the years, the pioneering company has become known for new and groundbreaking projects. From the premiere of the reflective Lest We Forget to mark the centenary of the start of the First World War, to being only the second ever ballet company to perform Pina Bausch’s challenging Sacre du Printemps (The Rite of Spring). 

You can also join the thousands of people enjoying timeless classics like the Nutcracker, Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty and Romeo and Juliet – many of which return to its programme year after year. 

If you have young kids, give them their first taste of ballet with My First Ballet performances, aimed at audiences as young as three. 

The English National Ballet history 

Since the early 1950s, the English National Ballet has been ever-present in London’s cultural scene. It’s also seen some of the world’s best talent grace its stage, from Rudolf Nureyev and Dame Beryl Grey to Tamara Rojo. 

Founded by dancers Alicia Markova and Anton Dolin with the help of financier Julian Braunsweg, the company started out under the name Gala Performances of Ballet. From its first season in 1950, the company’s focus was on touring, with the aim of making ballet accessible to new audiences. In 1951, it soon completed its first international season under the new name London’s Festival Ballet.  

London’s Festival Ballet became a firm fixture on the capital’s entertainment scene when it performed at the Royal Festival Hall for three months each year from 1952. It completed its first season at the Royal Albert Hall in 1963, and gave its first performance at the London Coliseum in 1969.  

The company changed its name to the English National Ballet in 1989 and moved to the Mulryan Centre for Dance in 2019, where you can get involved with classes and workshops. 

Where can I see the English National Ballet perform in London and the UK? 

You can see the mesmerising spectacle of an English National Ballet performance at various venues across London, including the vast London Coliseum and the majestic Royal Albert Hall. In recent years, performances have also taken place at Sadler’s Wells and the Peacock Theatre. 

The company also regularly tours, with performances across the UK and around the world. 

Where is the English National Ballet based in London? 

Although the company performs at venues across London and the UK, the English National Ballet’s address is at the Mulryan Centre for Dance on London City Island in London’s Docklands. This purpose-built venue houses a cafe, exhibition space and rehearsal studios. 

How do I get to English National Ballet? 

The English National Ballet’s Mulryan Centre for Dance is on London City Island. 

How to get there: 

• Underground – The nearest Tube station to the home of the English National Ballet is Canning Town, which is about six minutes’ walk away. 
• Bus – Take the 5, 69, 115, 147, 241, 300, 309, 323 or 330 bus to Canning Town Bus Station, which is a six-minute walk. Or take the D3 to Leamouth/Orchard Place, just five minutes away. 
• Cycling – Rent a Santander Cycle and head to the East India Station (DLR) docking point, which is a 14-minute walk from the English National Ballet. 

For shows at different venues, please check transport advice for the individual venue. 

Why you should go to one of its shows

• Regular performances of iconic ballets such as the Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty and Romeo and Juliet – often mixing traditional and contemporary styles.
• A diverse company that aims to make ballet accessible for all with new and ground-breaking performances and activities.
• Eye-catching sets and expertly crafted costumes.
• Live music from some of the country’s leading musicians, as part of the English National Ballet Philharmonic orchestra.

Visit London's top tip

Don't miss the annual showcase of the Nutcracker each year at the London Coliseum. Watch in awe as a little girl’s Nutcracker doll comes to life and she's transported to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy awaits in this magical ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s mesmerising score.

English National Ballet FAQs

What shows are currently showing in London with the English National Ballet?

This season sees the annual return of the Nutcracker return to the London Coliseum. Check more current and upcoming English National Ballet performances using the booking button on this page.

How can I buy tickets for English National Ballet performances?

Use the booking button on this page to find the tickets and prices for the latest and upcoming English National Ballet performances.

Are there age restrictions or recommendations for attending a show?

Age restrictions may vary, depending on the show and the venue. However, most performances are suitable for all ages. If you have young children, look out for My First Ballet performances for children as young as three or look for “family friendly” performances, usually for those aged five and above.

Is there accessible seating available at English National Ballet performances?

Seating at English National Ballet performances varies depending on the venue – please check with the venue in advance for specific access requirements. 

Some English National Ballet performances are audio-described, while there are also some shows dedicated as relaxed performances.