Celebrations begin with the return of one of the company’s most beloved productions, Swan Lake featuring an ensemble of 50 dancers and an orchestra of 60 supported by towering Gothic sets and beautiful classical costumes.

The Variations triple bill brings back to the stage the first piece ever performed by Birmingham Royal Ballet in the city, George Balanchine’s Theme and Variations. Tickets to this special evening of three unique and different ballets are priced at exclusive anniversary rates with over 200 seats at each performance available at just £10. As a thank you to the city that has been the Company’s home for 25 years, the Variations triple bill is dedicated to the people of Birmingham.

This anniversary season will also feature the Birmingham premiere of First Steps: A Child’s Swan Lake, a new production created especially for families and children aged 3-7 years old. There will also be unique insights into the backstage world including free pre-performance talks and an opportunity for members of the public to watch the Company’s daily class.

As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to involving audiences in the creative process, this season will also see two firsts for Birmingham audiences. Ahead of curtain up on Friday evening performances (2nd and 9th October), audience members are invited to join a select panel of some of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s most influential creative forces as they discuss life and performance as part of a world-renowned ballet company. The event is free for ticket holders.

On the following Saturday morning (10th October) members of the public are then invited behind closed doors as the company of dancers open up their daily class. This is a rare and fascinating opportunity for members of the public to take a peek behind the scenes to witness the preparation and dedication needed to be part of a touring ballet company.