We are thrilled to announce the Spring Summer 2025 season at Riley Theatre - Yorkshire’s largest dedicated dance venue.
Featuring work from rising dance stars, local community groups and exciting professional touring companies, this season promises to captivate, challenge and entertain audiences with a vibrant selection of performances.
While this season’s programme does not follow one single theme, we are proud to present an eclectic mix of stories, styles and voices—curated to reflect our belief in the power of dance to create connections, spark conversations and celebrate diversity.
A standout feature of this season is the significant number of performances by students from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD). These performances will showcase the fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and dedication of the next generation of dance artists.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Riley Theatre to experience the very best of contemporary dance. Explore the full season here or read on for a sneak peek of some of the performances coming up.
An elderly couple, deeply in love, reflect on their shared life through memories of the meals they've enjoyed together. As they age, each has lost one of their senses: he has lost his sense of smell, and she has lost her sense of taste. Can spices—particularly Black Pepper and Cardamom, the King and Queen of spices—help them rediscover what’s been lost? Love & Spice combines Indian dance, live music, cultural traditions, and food recipes to create a vibrant feast for the senses.
SCORE’d, DEBUT, Fresh Take, Next Gen, In Focus and Future Now - performances by NSCD Students - various datesWorking with guest choreographers, students on all courses at NSCD will showcase their talent, innovation and passion. From solo acts to collaborative works, these performances will highlight the ingenuity, determination and artistic growth of the next generation of dance artists.
Sophie Nüzel | Tales of a Watersprite – Saturday 26th April
In a pond teeming with life, a watersprite awakens. Among the newts, snails, and silver fish, strange objects begin to clutter the water, taking away the space for the creatures to swim. Sophie Nüzel’s gentle, multi-sensory production combines dance and puppetry to invite young audiences to imagine how even the smallest voices can make a difference. This relaxed performance, with an audio-described introduction, is perfect for families with children aged 4-10. Supported by Landeshauptstadt Munich and Arts Council England.
Equilibrio Dinamico | Through Her Eyes - Saturday 3rd May
Equilibrio Dinamico invites you to an evening celebrating the multifaceted female universe through the artistry of three international female choreographers. Through Her Eyes explores the delicate interplay of tenderness and force, offering a profound reflection on the power of the female gaze in the arts. With diverse poetics and languages of dance, this program showcases the strength, vulnerability and boundless creativity that define the female experience. Witness a celebration of artistry, identity, and expression as seen through her eyes.
Join us this Spring and Summer at Riley Theatre for a series of unmissable performances that showcase the best of dance from near and far. Find out more and book here
Since its inception, NSCD has been at the forefront of nurturing talent, championing innovation and shaping the future of contemporary dance. In late 2025, NSCD looks forward to celebrating 40 years of excellence in dance education, development, and performance. As we approach this milestone, we remain committed to our mission of inspiring creativity, fostering artistry, and bringing compelling performances to our audiences.
