This Autumn and Winter, Riley Theatre is excited to present a diverse range of dance performances. From local talent to international artists, our Autumn/Winter 2024-25 season features an array of shows designed to captivate and engage audiences. We’re also proud to spotlight Black History Month with three special performances that celebrate and reflect on Black history and culture. Join us in exploring fresh perspectives, innovative choreography, and compelling stories right here in Yorkshire’s largest dedicated dance venue.
Explore the full season or read on for a sneak peek at what’s coming up:
Scottish Dance Theatre | The Flock & Moving Cloud – September 28
Prepare for a thrilling evening as Scottish Dance Theatre graces our stage with two physically daring works by two of the most exciting female choreographers in the European dance scene Roser López Espinosa and Sofia Nappi. The Flock draws inspiration from the migration of birds, creating a mesmerising exploration of movement and migration. Moving Cloud fuses contemporary dance with traditional Celtic music, offering a captivating blend of modern and classic influences.
Barber B | Each One, Teach One – October 12
Dive into the vibrant world of Barber B with Each One, Teach One, a compelling sequel to A Play of Sorts. This performance intertwines storytelling, dance and archival material to narrate the remarkable journey of Leeds icon Barber B. Follow his story through vivid choreography and personal anecdotes. The evening includes a Q&A, a short film, and an abstract documentary, alongside a special performance by Gappy Ranks and young artists from Music House’s Jam Around the Table.
Dress Me Beautiful | The Future of Fashion – October 19
Fashion meets performance in Dress Me Beautiful, an immersive exhibition curated by Khadijah Ibrahiim. Experience the creative intersection of textiles, activism, and movement through the work of Congolese-born South African designer Papy Kaluw. This performance challenges conventional fashion and highlights the potential of ethical design to inspire social change. From Cape Town to New York Fashion Week, witness how Papy Kaluw's Urban Zulu brand tells profound African stories through its garments.
PopOdyssey | October 24 & 25 – presented in collaboration with Light Night at Leeds Corn Exchange
An extraordinary immersive show that reimagines Homer’s Odyssey through modern pop culture. Featuring an inflatable Trojan horse, a thirst trap bot, and a cast of 60 performers, this contemporary reworking collides ancient Greek mythology with today’s pop culture. Written and directed by Dr. Joseph Mercier and performed in collaboration with final-year BA students from Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD), this one-hour continuous loop show promises a grand finale that will leave you spellbound. Presented in collaboration with Light Night at Leeds Corn Exchange.
Rise Up Festival | Windrush by Song – October 26
Experience the powerful narrative of the Windrush generation through Windrush by Song. Follow the journey of a brother and sister who are transported to 1940s Nevis, witnessing their grandparents' migration and the challenges they faced in Britain. This moving performance offers a poignant reflection on resilience, community, and the impact of cultural heritage.
Hofesh Shechter | From England with Love – November 9
Explore the complexity of England with Hofesh Shechter’s From England with Love, a new work for Shechter II. This piece is an ode to England’s intricate and contrasting identity, blending breathtaking choreography with a rich score that fuses English classical music with contemporary sounds. Experience a powerful and poetic exploration of national identity, tradition, and transformation.
Florence Peake | Your Meaning Not Your Materiality – 30 November & 1, 7, 8 December
Acclaimed interdisciplinary artist Florence Peake presents Your Meaning Not Your Materiality, a unique performance that merges dance with live plaster casting. Set in a mock artist studio, this work explores the sculptural process of plaster casting as a metaphor for the ephemeral nature of creation. Performed at Leed Art Gallery by MA Interdisciplinary Dance Performance students from NSCD - part of NSCD events off-site programme.
New Ground 2024 | December 3-6
Watch the next generation of dancers and choreographers in action as NSCD’s undergraduate students present three new works created in collaboration with international guest choreographers Tom Roden, Alethia Antonia, and Bruce Wong. Each piece offers a unique perspective and showcases the innovative spirit of emerging talent.
Join us at Riley Theatre for an unforgettable season that brings together daring choreography, thought-provoking narratives, and immersive experiences. We look forward to sharing these remarkable performances with you.
