From Sadler’s Wells to the Royal Opera House, here are the top dance shows in the capital you can book tickets for this May 2026 [updated monthly]
It’s May, and London’s twinkliest-toed performers are gearing up for another fantastic month of dance on stage. Here, we’ve listed the finest performances from the Royal Opera House, Sadler’s Wells and Sadler’s Wells East that aren’t to be missed.
The Royal Ballet’s virtuouso resident choreographer Wayne McGregor has staged another banger on Bow Street this May with Alchemies, which revives two works and includes a world premiere of a spellbinding new piece.
Darlings of the 2025 Danza Biennial Bullyache are bringing their acclaimed piece inspired by the infamous private members club Bohemian Grove to the capital for the first time, and BalletBoyz are returning for a blockbuster celebration of 25 years of the company.
Whether you’re looking for a last-minute night out, or have been planning an evening at the theatre for months, these are the dance shows in London you should be booking this May.
India Lawrence is Time Out’s resident dance expert. Formally trained, she’s been dancing since the age of four and currently performs in a contemporary dance company outside of work. She has been reviewing contemporary dance and ballet in London since 2022.
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Frederick Ashton's wonderfully silly production returns to the Royal Opera House. This gem of a comic ballet is packed with fiendish footwork, a winning love story, and of course, dancing chickens. Prepare to leave grinning ear to ear after experiencing one of the Royal Ballet’s all-time most popular ballets.
Where is it? Royal Opera House
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