Sadler’s Wells East, the new multimillion pound dance outpost opening in February, aims to be an accessible destination for the diverse local community of east London. The artistic director, Sir Alistair Spalding, envisions the new center as the “National Theatre of the dance world” and is focused on engaging with the South Asian, hip-hop, and ballet-loving communities in the area.
Part of the £1.1 billion East Bank development, Sadler’s Wells East will feature a range of performances, including an immersive rave, an adaptation of James Baldwin’s novel Giovanni’s Room, and a co-production of Romeo and Juliet with Stratford East. Additionally, the inaugural exhibition at V&A East will be a deep dive into Black British music.
The new theater will offer 50% of new roles to residents from local boroughs and ensure that 50% of tickets cost £25 or less to enhance accessibility. The organization plans to use education programs and open foyer space to encourage the community to see the venue as their own.
Prominent choreographer Wayne McGregor’s studios are also nearby, emphasizing the growing importance of the area as a hub for innovation and creativity. Mayor Sadiq Khan praised the announcement as a significant milestone in East Bank’s development, strengthening London’s dance offering overall.
The opening of Sadler’s Wells East promises to bring exciting and diverse dance performances to east London, enriching the cultural landscape of the area and providing a platform for community engagement and creativity.
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