Ballet Black: Heroes

Now in their 22nd year, Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black return to The Lowry with a new double bill, Ballet Black: HEROES.

Award-winning choreographer, Mthuthuzeli November contemplates the purpose of life in The Waiting Game, his exciting and energetic work about the meaning of life, originally created in 2020, and infused with a dynamic soundtrack featuring the voices of the Ballet Black artists.

“Exhilarating in effect and full of ideas, The Waiting Game feels like a hit, confirming November’s talent and this remarkable company’s strong sense of itself.” The Guardian

The double bill is completed by Sophie Laplane, the Franco-British artist and Choreographer in Residence at Scottish Ballet, who creates a new piece for Ballet Black, If At First, following her dazzling 2019 BB ballet, CLICK! “The struggle itself towards the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart.” (Albert Camus, The Myth of Sisyphus). Sound the fanfares! The conquering hero returns, bathed in glory, but not always… If At First explores a more subtle heroism, a quieter triumph over adversity, in a struggle that unites us all. Humanity, heroism, and self-acceptance combine in this celebratory and original piece.

Ballet Black has transformed the landscape of British ballet, creating a prominent platform for dancers and artists of Black and Asian descent, as well as establishing a new canon of ballet repertoire that resonates with audiences around the world.

Reviews

“The company dances with a power and a physicality that is hugely impressive.” The Reviews Hub

“The glittering show dance that follows is wonderful, with all the power a finale deserves.” Lost in Theatre Land

“…watching the whole cast gloriously embracing the musical’s finale is such fun and impossibly infectious in the toe-tapping variety.." The British Theatre Guide