Eek! This is exciting! Sadler’s Wells East opens next month in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park’s East Bank, bringing dance performances and creative opportunities for all ages to enjoy.
Sadler’s Wells East, opens in February 2025, the latest jewel in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park’s East Bank, bringing East Londoners a hub of innovation, education, and creativity. The new theatre promises an exciting array of dance performances and creative opportunities that cater to all ages.
A Grand Opening Featuring East London Talent!
You can expect a spectacular lineup of over 20 productions, featuring original performances and local talent. The opening performance, Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu’s Our Mighty Groove, is a celebration of community and the magic of the dance floor, starring a cast that blends professional dancers with local talent from East London. A vibrant production to set the tone for a season rich in diversity and inclusivity.
Celebrating East London’s creative spirit this season will also feature productions like Romeo & Juliet, an ambitious collaboration with Stratford East, and Until We Sleep, a mesmerising work by Dagenham-raised choreographer Botis Seva. Sadler’s Wells East is committed to giving local artists opportunities with programming that resonates with the community it serves.
Affordable and Accessible Fun for All
Sadler’s Wells East wants everyone to be able to enjoy the theatre and will have 20,000 tickets priced at £25 or under and £10 tickets available for 16–30-year-olds through the Barclays Dance Pass.
The new theatre is designed for flexibility and fun with an auditorium that can shift and flex just like the performers, transforming into everything from a skatepark to an immersive rave experience, making it a dynamic space where young people can connect with the arts in fresh and exciting ways.
Diverse Performances for All Ages
The opening season’s eclectic mix of dance styles ensures something for everyone in the family. Whether your little ones are budding ballerinas or aspiring street dancers, they’ll find inspiration in performances that range from hip-hop and bharatanatyam to ballet and vogue.
In February, Irish choreographer Emma Martin presents Birdboy, a production referred to as an all-ages tribute to all the weird kids left on the sidelines. This visually arresting work for children ages 7+, incorporates her raw style of movement and theatrical magic that never panders to expectations of work for younger viewers. We’ve got a tickets to win!!
For families with younger children, look out for Newcastle-based balletLORENT’s Snow White, a family-friendly take on the classic tale, perfect for an Easter outing.
Creative Opportunities for Young People
Sadler’s Wells East isn’t just about watching dance – it’s about getting involved. The venue houses Academy Breakin’ Convention, the UK’s first free diploma in Hip Hop Theatre for 16–19-year-olds. Starting in 2025, this programme offers a unique chance for local teens to explore performance and production arts, making it an invaluable resource for parents looking to nurture their children’s creativity.
This Summer YFX Youth Festival will also bring together school and youth groups from across England for an exhilarating two-week celebration of choreography and performance.
A Hub for Families and the Community
Sadler’s Wells East is more than just a theatre – it’s a space for the community to gather, create, and connect. With two catering spaces and a public performance area called The Dance Floor, families can enjoy impromptu showcases by community groups and guest artists, as well as Family Freestyle dance workshops. The building also features six state-of-the-art studios where artists can develop new works, ensuring that Sadler’s Wells East remains a dynamic creative hub.
For culturally curious East London parents, Sadler’s Wells East is a game-changer. It’s not just about world-class dance performances; it’s about making culture accessible, engaging, and relevant to your family. Whether you’re enjoying a Sunday matinee with the kids or encouraging your teen to explore their artistic side, this vibrant new venue promises to be a cornerstone of family life in East London.