The summer dance stage is heating up in the capital; whether you're a fan of long-limbed lyricism, thoughtful meditations, playful politics or even dance without the dancers. Here are our picks of the best dance to see in London this June.
On at Sadler's Wells this month is an interesting experiment in choreography using light, sound, and film... but no performers. No Body is a series of installations throughout the building, featuring work by celebrated lighting designers Michael Hulls and Lucy Carter, and composers Nitin Sawnhey and Jules Maxwell. Will the exhibition encourage people who don't usually like dance to come to the theatre? Maybe, maybe not — but we're excited about the chance to roam the Sadler's stage. 7-12 June
Over in Covent Garden, the Royal Ballet is joining this summer's Shakespeare400 celebrations with a revival of Christopher Wheeldon's setting of The Winter's Tale. Already hailed as a modern classic, the ballet preserves the dark magic of Shakespeare's late romance, with the acclaimed Edward Watson in the lead as Leontes and Sarah Lamb as a delicate Perdita. 10 June
Ballet fans have the option to go large — very large — with Derek Deane's Swan Lake performed in the round at the Royal Albert Hall by the English National Ballet this week and next. In total, 120 performers fill the massive space, and the sight of 60 shimmering swans in act two is a particular delight on a grand scale. Until 12 June
Those who like their dance works irreverent, provocative (and heaps of fun) should head over to The Place for Slap and Tickle, the new solo show from Essex punk princess Liz Aggiss. Described by the artist as a "feminist soup", the evening promises playful rudeness, thoughtful anarchy and fabulous costumes. With some strong language and sexy chat, this one's for grown-ups only. 17-18 June
