Former Royal Ballet principal Alina Cojocaru joins stars of the Paris Opera, the Martha Graham Dance Company and the next generation of dance talent for a one-night performance blending classical ballet, contemporary choreography and live music.
Ballet Nights returns to Theatre Royal Brighton on Wednesday 9 December, after a sell out performance earlier this year at the theatre, bringing a new international line-up of dance artists to the city for an evening spanning classical ballet, neo-classical work and contemporary dance.
Following a successful Brighton appearance in the spring, the production returns with a programme headed by Alina Cojocaru OBE, one of the most celebrated ballerinas of her generation and a former principal of The Royal Ballet.
Joining her are Paris Opera Étoile Paul Marque and fellow star Bleuenn Battistoni, bringing the calibre of France’s leading ballet company to the Brighton stage. The evening also features artists from the contemporary dance world, alongside emerging performers and musicians.
A particular highlight is the work of choreographer Kim Brandstrup, whose new piece will receive its UK premiere with Cojocaru performing. Brandstrup is known for his distinctive approach to dance theatre, which brings together movement, music and storytelling. The programme also includes an extract from his acclaimed work Breaking Bach, performed by emerging contemporary dance artist Seirian Griffiths some of whose work was shown when Ballet Boyz came to town this summer. The pairing offers an opportunity to encounter two different interpretations of Brandstrup’s choreography within the same evening.
The programme reaches beyond classical ballet, with Laurel Dalley Smith, a star of the Martha Graham Dance Company, representing the legacy of one of modern dance’s most influential figures. James Wilton Dance, known for its physically dynamic contemporary work and strong online following, brings another dimension to the bill.
Bajan dancer Liam Woodvine represents emerging talent from Barbados, while Patrick Alexander Keefe, an English National Opera Harewood Artist, adds a connection to the world of opera and vocal performance.
The next generation of performers is also central to Ballet Nights’ approach, with contributions from the Acosta Dance Foundation and Rambert School. Their inclusion places developing artists alongside internationally established names, offering audiences a view of the breadth of talent shaping dance today.
Live music is an integral part of the evening, with Quartet Concrete performing a score spanning classical and contemporary influences. Host and compere Giles Pearson will guide audiences through the programme, using storytelling and conversation to bring them closer to the performers and their work.
Rather than presenting a single ballet from beginning to end, Ballet Nights offers a curated programme of contrasting styles, artists and choreographic approaches. Its appeal lies in the opportunity to experience different forms of dance in one performance, from the precision and tradition of classical ballet to the physical experimentation of contemporary movement.
For Brighton audiences, the December performance brings internationally recognised performers together with emerging artists in a format designed to make the range of dance more accessible, while retaining the excitement of seeing leading performers live. Perfect for a festive outing too!
Details
Ballet Nights takes place at Theatre Royal Brighton, New Road, on Wednesday 9 December at 7.30pm. The performance has an interval.
Tickets and further information are available from ATG Tickets.
Dates: 7.30pm on 9th December 2026 – Running time 1 hour 50 minutes.
Venue: Theatre Royal Brighton, New Road, Brighton, BN1 1SD
Tickets: £30- £110
