Ballet Black at 25

Cassa Pancho’s BALLET BLACK celebrates its 25th Anniversary with a much-anticipated debut to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

This landmark double bill features Ingoma (2019), the choreographic debut of former Company dancer, Mthuthuzeli November. Inspired by the 1946 South African miners’ strike – a precursor to the anti-apartheid movement – Ingoma captures the suffering and resilience of Black miners and their communities, bringing rarely told stories to the ballet stage. The work won both the 2020 Olivier Award and the Black British Theatre Award for Best Dance Production, and now makes its Wolverhampton Grand premiere.

Alongside it comes a joyful new commission from Alvin Ailey royalty Hope Boykin, a two-time Bessie Award winner, making her UK choreographic debut. Boykin, who says “I make work and create environments from personal and lived experiences,” creates a celebratory piece especially for BALLET BLACK’s 25th year – a vibrant tribute to the company’s journey and a bold look towards its future.

Audiences can expect BALLET BLACK’s signature blend of powerful storytelling, striking choreography and rich global influences, in a programme that honours the past while celebrating the future. For 25 years, BALLET BLACK has transformed the landscape of British ballet – creating vital opportunities for dancers and artists of Black and Asian descent, while building a repertoire that resonates with audiences around the world.

Important Information

Running Time: TBC

Age Guidance: 7+. Children under 3 will not be admitted.

Family Ticket Offer: £100* for 4 tickets (minimum of 1 adult and 1 child). Blue seats only. *A £4 booking fee applies to all purchases

First Call Offer: £50* for 2 tickets (1x First Call Member & 1 accompanying adult 18+). Excludes gold seats. *A £4 booking fee applies to all purchases

School Party Rates Available: Please contact Box Office on 01902 42 92 12

Access Information: Wheelchair positions can be booked by calling the Box Office on weekdays between 2pm-5.30pm – 01902 42 92 12 OR online by joining our access register.