The best: Ballet and dance performances coming to Manchester

The worldwide phenomenon that redefined Irish dance is set to return to the United Kingdom in 2026 to celebrate its 30th Anniversary. Lord of the Dance, Michael Flatley’s visionary show, is one of the most recognised dance stage productions in history, and the 30th Anniversary Tour will feature brand-new choreography, stunning costumes, state-of-the-art special effects, and cutting-edge lighting

Pioneering British dance company Rambert marks a century at the forefront of the art form with This is Rambert, a bold, sweeping new showcase that spans a series of concise, high-impact works. The programme features contributions from pioneering artists with an urgent message, including (LA)HORDE and Emma Evelein.

After last year’s triumphant tour, Crown Ballet returns to the UK with a stunning production of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, Swan Lake, including an autumn show at Bolton’s Albert Halls.

Shakespeare’s infamous love story is reimagined for the stage by the English National Ballet, performing Prokofiev’s exhilarating score live, including the unforgettable Dance of the Knights, at the Palace Theatre this autumn.

Following last year’s acclaimed tour, Crown Ballet brings back its stupendous production of the festive classic, The Nutcracker, including a night at Stockport’s famous Plaza.

Scottish Dance Theatre, Scotland’s flagship contemporary dance company, presents the UK premiere of a new programme by internationally acclaimed choreographers Emilie Leriche (US/Sweden) and Edouard Hue (Switzerland).

A contrasting double-header, Leriche’s Rotten Work is a poetic slow-burner, while Hue’s choreography is raw, sensation-driven and intense.

New Adventures return to Lowry with the 30th Anniversary celebration of one of their most popular and beloved productions: Matthew Bourne’s CINDERELLA.

Featuring Lez Brotherston’s glorious Olivier Award-winning designs, lighting by Olivier Award-winning Neil Austin and video and projection designs by Duncan McLean, CINDERELLA features sensational sound design by Paul Groothuis, which will take the audience into the heart of Prokofiev’s magnificent score, and the sights and sounds of war-torn London.

Founded in 1947, the critically celebrated Varna International Ballet returns to the UK following a breathtaking debut tour, bringing the magical tale of Snow White to The Bridgewater Hall in early 2027. Filled with stunning choreography and the music of Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Pugni and Grieg, Snow White is a dazzling ballet for all ages.

Journey back to the glamour of Hollywood in the roaring 20’s with high-energy choreography and sumptuous set designs (including over 14,000 litres of water on stage), combined with all the romance and wit of one of the world’s best- loved films, as Singin’ in the Rain comes to Lowry next summer.