Birmingham Royal Ballet announce bumper new season

David Bintley and Galina Samsova's production of Giselle will grace the Hippodrome's stage on October 15 and 16 before heading out on tour.

First staged 20 years ago in 1999, BRB Principals Momoko Hirata and César Morales will star as the titular heroine and her anti-hero Count Albrecht.

A Mixed Bill programme will run from September 19 to October 30, and will include the world premiere of the latest Ballet Now commission as well as a partnership with Ballet Black.

Rising young choreographer Jack Lister will see his new work, A Brief Nostalgia, be performed on stage for the first time as part of the Ballet Now initiative, which features a new score by award-winning Scottish composer Tom Harrold.

Ballet Black meanwhile, having took to the pyramid stage this Summer performing with Stormzy at this year's Glastonbury festival, will perform Cathy Marston's critically acclaimed The Suit, which is inspired by Can Themba's South African fable.

Their Founder and Artistic Director, Cassa Pancho MBE, said: "I'm thrilled that Ballet Black will be joining Birmingham Royal Ballet for their exciting mixed programme in Autumn 2019.

"It's a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with one of the most established British ballet companies, and for our own brilliant dancers to work alongside the world-class talent at BRB."

BRB dancers will close the Mixed Bill programme with Twyla Tharp's Nine Sinatra Songs, an international crowd pleasing favourite which traces the romantic relationships of seven couples.

Finally, the year will round out with the annual return of Sir Peter Wright's acclaimed production of The Nutcracker, a Christmas classic enjoyed by people across the world as they're transported to a magical world of giant Christmas trees and dancing snowflakes.

Whether you're a ballet aficionado, or looking to experience the joy of the theatre for the first time, there's sure to be something for everyone this Autumn.