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London’s Top 5 Dance Venues

Exploring the Eclectic Scene: London's top 5 dance venues from contemporary to ballet, experimental to traditional...

Three acrobats are performing an aerial routine. Two are wearing gold outfits, and one is in red. They are suspended by red silk fabrics, displaying impressive strength, flexibility, and coordination against a dark background.
Image via Theatre Weekly

London, a city known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, offers a plethora of dance venues catering to all tastes. From classical ballet to contemporary experimental performances, these alternative dance venues provide a platform for artists and enthusiasts alike. Let's dive into some of the notable venues and discover the dance styles, upcoming events, menus, and ticket prices they have to offer...

Sadler's Wells

A large group of actors perform energetically on stage during a theater production. The backdrop features a large, illuminated clock. The performers are dressed in vintage attire, with one actor in the center wearing a colorful, bright costume.
Image via Sadler's Wells

Rosebery Ave, London EC1R 4TN

Located in Islington, Sadler's Wells is a renowned dance venue with a rich history. It showcases a diverse range of dance styles, including ballet, contemporary, flamenco, and hip-hop. With multiple theaters, it hosts both large-scale productions and intimate performances. Tickets range from £12 for standing tickets to £100 for premium seats. Sadler's Wells also houses a stylish restaurant, Sadler's Wells Theatre Café, offering a selection of pre-show meals, snacks, and beverages.

Upcoming events:

Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet: Prices from £15

La Bamba!: Prices from £18

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

The Place

A performer in a dramatic outfit, featuring a large headpiece made of branches and leaves, dances energetically on stage. They are wearing dark attire and holding fabric with trailing strands. The backdrop is a brick wall, lit with colorful lighting.
Dahlia Katz (2023) emilyn claid, UNTITLED by Emilyn Clai

17 Duke's Road, London, WC1H 9PY

The Place is a hub for contemporary dance and performance. It supports emerging artists and offers a diverse program, including showcases, workshops, and masterclasses. Ticket prices range from £10 for preview shows to £20 for evening performances. The Place also houses a café, The Place Café, which provides light bites, salads, and beverages.

Upcoming events:

MASTERS OF BALLET ACADEMY: Tickets are £25

CAT SUMMER SHOW: Tickets start from £9

THE REVENGE OF POPPERFACE: Tickets start from £12

Jackson's Lane

Two performers in elaborate, colorful costumes with gold and black hues pose dramatically on stage with exaggerated expressions. One has a top hat embellished with decorative elements. The backdrop includes theatrical props such as a white folding chair and green artificial turf.
Jackson's Lane via Facebook

Jacksons Lane, 269a Archway Road, London N6 5AA

Jackson's Lane is a unique venue that blends circus, theatre, and contemporary dance. Known for its experimental performances and cutting-edge productions, Jackson's Lane showcases a range of interdisciplinary works. Ticket prices vary depending on the performance, starting from £12. The venue also offers a cozy café serving light refreshments and snacks.

Upcoming events:

EPIC MINDS: Epic Minds is an engaging, often hilarious, and sometimes disturbing romp through the world of psychosis, mental health diagnosis and recovery. Ticket prices start at £14

BROADWAY 2023: Inspired by timeless Broadway musicals, the show is filled with sensational choreography and singing that will put you on the edge of your seat! A ballroom and Latin experience infused with musical theatre and jazz. Ticket prices start at £30. 

Royal Opera House

A group of ballet dancers in white costumes and flower wreaths perform in synchrony on a stage with classical architectural backdrops. They hold garlands and line up in graceful, curved poses against a richly detailed set that includes columns and a staircase.
Royal Opera House via Facebook

Bow St, London WC2E 9DD

While primarily known for its opera and ballet, the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden also presents contemporary dance performances. With its opulent setting and world-class productions, the venue offers a unique blend of classical and modern dance. Ticket prices can range from £10 for standing tickets to £150 for premium seats. The on-site restaurants and bars provide a variety of dining options, from pre-show meals to post-performance drinks.

Upcoming events:

THE ROYAL BALLET SCHOOL SUMMER PERFORMANCE: Dancers of The Royal Ballet School display their wealth of talent, and the remarkable skills and artistry they are honing as they train at one of the world’s greatest ballet schools. Tickets start at £42. 

JEWELS: The Australian Ballet present George Balanchine's three-act masterpiece. Tickets start from £4

Southbank Centre

A vibrant performance on stage features a central character in a blue costume with large shoulder pads and a yellow belt, surrounded by dancers in colorful outfits. The scene is dynamic, with dramatic poses and expressive faces, illuminated by bright stage lights.
southbankcentre.co.uk

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX

Situated on the banks of the River Thames, the Southbank Centre is a sprawling arts complex that encompasses various performance spaces. While not solely dedicated to dance, it hosts a wide range of dance events, from world dance festivals to contemporary dance showcases. Ticket prices vary depending on the performance and venue within the complex. The Southbank Centre boasts numerous restaurants and cafes, offering diverse culinary experiences.

Upcoming events:

Earth Makes No Sound: Tickets start from £8

The SpongeBob Musical: Tickets start from £22.50