Link·The Guardian

Ballet's big comeback: why the art form is winning new audiences

Sell-out seasons, viral TikTok clips, and a new generation of superstar dancers are transforming an art form once seen as elitist into something genuinely exciting.

Quote
We are not here to preserve the past — we are here to make the art form relevant to everyone who lives in this country. That means taking risks, commissioning new works, and ensuring our company looks like Britain.

Carlos Acosta, Artistic Director, Birmingham Royal Ballet

The Stage

Announcement

English National Ballet announces 2025/26 Season

ENB's new season includes a world premiere from Crystal Pite, a revival of Akram Khan's Giselle, and the company's first ever New Year's Eve gala.

Instagram·@royalballet

The Royal Ballet shares first look at Francesca Hayward's Sleeping Beauty

✨ First look at @francesca.hayward as Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty, opening at the Royal Opera House on 12 March. Choreography by Marius Petipa, sets and costumes by Oliver Messel. Tickets at the link in bio. #RoyalBallet #SleepingBeauty

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YouTube·6:27

Don Quixote Pas de Deux — Gouneo & Semionova | Prix de Lausanne 2024 Gala

Hamburg Ballet's Osiel Gouneo and Berlin State Ballet's Polina Semionova delivered one of the most technically dazzling performances of the year at the Prix de Lausanne gala.

Watch
Feature

Placeholder interview: Sarah Lamb on musicality, longevity and dancing without fuss

This placeholder interview shows how Plie can package a dancer conversation: a strong premise in the headline, a few clear themes in the standfirst, and body copy that leaves room for either direct Q&A or a reported interview narrative.

Plie Editorial·
Placeholder interview: Sarah Lamb on musicality, longevity and dancing without fuss
Feature

Placeholder feature: Why Marianela Nuñez still feels like the benchmark

This placeholder feature sketches the kind of long-form profile Plie should publish around major dancers: part biography, part critical framing, and part explanation of why a performer matters in the current moment.

Plie Editorial·
Placeholder feature: Why Marianela Nuñez still feels like the benchmark
Review

Placeholder review: Marianela – Timeless and the power of a star portrait

This placeholder review demonstrates the tone and structure Plie can use for star-led programmes: atmosphere, repertory context, performance detail and a concise verdict that helps the reader place the event quickly.

Plie Editorial·
Placeholder review: Marianela – Timeless and the power of a star portrait
News

Placeholder: English National Ballet’s next wave is coming into focus

This placeholder news piece marks a strand of coverage Plie should expand: how English National Ballet is balancing established principals with the next generation of artists moving into bigger assignments.

Plie Editorial·
News

Melissa Hamilton and Joseph Sissens Promoted to Principal at The Royal Ballet

The Royal Ballet has announced that Melissa Hamilton and Joseph Sissens have both been promoted to the rank of Principal, effective from the start of 2025. The promotions recognise two of the company's most compelling performers, both of whom have been integral members of the company for years.