The opening of Sadler’s Wells East in London’s Stratford isn’t just another arts venue it’s a revolutionary space for Black dance, creativity, and community. As the first new theatre from Sadler’s Wells in over 20 years, this state of the art complex represents more than just stages and studios; it’s a statement. For Black dancers, choreographers, and audiences, it’s a long-awaited home where our stories, rhythms, and innovations are centered, celebrated, and pushed forward.
Why This Space Matters Located in the heart of East London one of the city’s most culturally vibrant and diverse areas Sadler’s Wells East is designed to break down barriers. With a 550 seat main theatre, a flexible studio space, and dedicated community dance studios, it’s built for experimentation and accessibility. But what truly sets it apart is its commitment to amplifying Black voices in dance, both onstage and behind the scenes.
“This isn’t just a theatre it’s a movement,” says Dane Hurst, artistic director of Phoenix Dance Theatre and a leading figure in British contemporary dance. “For too long, Black dancers have had to fight for space, literally and metaphorically. Sadler’s Wells East changes that. It’s a place where we can create without compromise.”
A Legacy of Elevating Black Dance
Sadler’s Wells has long been a trailblazer in platforming Black dance talent. Productions like the now iconic Breakin Convention, Ballet Black’s Nina: By Whatever Means, a fierce tribute to Nina Simone, and Botis Seva’s BLKDOG, an explosive exploration of Black masculinity and mental health, have left indelible marks on the dance world. These works didn’t just entertain they challenged norms, reclaimed narratives, and proved that Black dance is not a genre but a universe of its own.
Now, with Sadler’s Wells East, the institution is doubling down on its mission. The venue’s opening season will showcase groundbreaking work, including:
TRAPLORD, A visceral fusion of hip-hop, contemporary, and African diasporic movement by Ivan Michael Blackstock, this production redefined street dance as high art while interrogating themes of Black identity, survival, and resilience. “TRAPLORD was more than a show it was a manifesto,” says dancer Jordan Douglas. “It took the raw energy of the streets and transformed it into something transcendent. That’s the power of this new space it lets us turn our truths into art.”
Far From the Norm’s latest work, The acclaimed company, led by Botis Seva, return with another electrifying piece, blending Seva’s signature gritty, hypnotic style with new explorations of belonging and displacement. “Botis doesn’t just choreograph he prophesies, “says Lilian Mbabazi, a Ugandan-British dancer who performed in the production. “Working in this new theatre, with its incredible tech and intimacy, felt like we were pushing the art form into the future.”
What’s Next? A Future of Possibility
Beyond the headline productions, Sadler’s Wells East is investing in the next generation of Black dance talent. Its Open Art Surgery program provides residencies for emerging choreographers, while community initiatives ensure local young dancers many from underrepresented backgrounds have access to world-class training.
This theatre isn’t just for now it’s for the next 50 years, says Julie Felix, a veteran dance educator and founder of Move It Forward, a mentorship scheme for Black dancers. When young Black kids walk in here, they’ll see themselves reflected onstage and behind the scenes. That changes everything.”
Why You Need to Be There
For Black audiences, Sadler’s Wells East is more than a night out it’s an experience, a statement, and a celebration. Whether you’re a dance aficionado or a first-time theatregoer, this is where you’ll witness the future of Black creativity.
See the unmissable: Keep an eye out for upcoming productions like
Alesandra Seutin – Mimi’s Shebeen: https://www.sadlerswells.com/whats-on/alesandra-seutin-and-kvs-mimis-shebeen/
Toussaint to Move – FREE: https://www.sadlerswells.com/whats-on/toussaint-to-move-free/
Get involved: Take part in workshops, talks, and open rehearsal this is a space meant to be lived in, not just observed.
Claim your space: As Hurst puts it, “This is our house. Let’s fill it with our energy, our stories, our magic.”
Sadler’s Wells East isn’t just changing dance it’s changing the game. And for Black artists and audiences, that’s something worth celebrating.
