Rachael Gillespie and Harriet Marden in Sketches. Photo Emily Nuttall. Artwork by Colleen Mair.

Northern Ballet presents Sketches: Past, Present, Future

Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre, Leeds

3 & 4 June 2025

Following sell-out performances in 2024, Northern Ballet ’s choreographic platform, Sketches, is returning to Leeds with a compelling programme that weaves together new works and a classic piece of ballet repertoire.

Devised by Artistic Director Federico Bonelli, Sketches offers emerging choreographers a platform to workshop, create, and present new and innovative works.  

This year’s programme includes pieces from Northern Ballet artists and guest choreographers and will conclude with an excerpt from the classic ballet Paquita, seamlessly bridging the past, present and future of ballet in one captivating performance.

Artistic Director Federico Bonelli said: 

“By bringing an excerpt from Paquita into this year’s Sketches programme, we’re reflecting on the rich heritage of ballet while also introducing the new talent that will help define its future. It’s important to understand where we’ve come from to better shape where we’re headed, and this programme beautifully connects and contrasts the past, present, and future of ballet in a really exciting and meaningful way.”

To celebrate Bradford City of Culture 2025, Northern Ballet partnered with Bradford Producing Hub in a call out for a Bradford-based choreographers to take part in Sketches and spotlight local talent. Bonelli selected choreographer Vince Virr to work with the Northern Ballet dancers and bring a new piece to the stage.

Three performances of Sketches: Past, Present, Future will take place across 3 & 4 June at Northern Ballet’s very own Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre. Audiences will get to experience an intimate and unfiltered look into the creative process, with stripped-back performances and introductions by the choreographers themselves, offering a rare glimpse into the creative journey behind each piece.

This is a unique opportunity to witness some of the fresh choreographic voices redefining ballet while also celebrating its legacy. 

Tickets for Sketches: Past, Present, Future are now on sale.