The annual dance taster fest at Sadler's Wells is getting bigger this year. As well as presenting the usual mixed-bill, variety-show-style weekenders, ideal for sampling a range of dance styles in one sitting, there are opportunities to sample the work of some very classy and very cool choreographers across a fortnight at knockdown prices, with prom tickets for all shows (standing right at the front) just £8. Choose from the following:
Opening weekend 22-23 June: Made at Sadler's Wells presents a triple bill of contemporary works created at the Wells by world renowned choreographers. That's Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui's beautiful duet Faun, Russell Maliphant's dazzling solo Afterlight (Part 1) and Wayne McGregor's multi-media collaboration UNDANCE.
Midweek 24-25 June: Belgian choreographer, Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker holds audiences captive with her minimalist compositions. Drumming is based on a powerful score by composer Steve Reich, and you'll see De Keersmaeker's company Rosas perform on-stage with the contemporary music ensemble Ictus. Rousing, fascinating stuff!
Sampled weekend 28-29 June: Sampled offers a delightfully mixed programme of ballet, tango, hip hop and contemporary from both emerging dancers and established pros. There's a laid-back, fun vibe to these special weekends and all tickets are £12 seated, £8 standing.
Last chance to sample 3-7 July: Hofesh Shecter is a choreographer who's helped make contemporary dance cool, through his energetic, exciting creations, some of which feel more like a gig than a dance performance. Political Mother — The Choreographer's Cut is totes rock and extremely loud, with a live band at the back of the stage, possibly with Shecter himself on percussion. You may wonder what on earth is going on but those £8 standing tickets are going to give you an intense experience.
Sadler's Sampled runs from 22 June to 7 July at Sadler's Wells, Rosebery Avenue EC1, a short walk from Angel tube. Seats for all Sampled shows start from just £12, with prom tickets (standing) at £8.
Find something you like? Try one of our big dance show recommendations for November.