The Royal Ballet has unveiled a groundbreaking new production under the direction of celebrated American choreographer Justin Peck, marking a significant moment in the company's 2025 season. The premiere, which took place on Friday 14th November 2025, represents Peck's highly anticipated debut with the prestigious London company, bringing his distinctive contemporary style to the historic Covent Garden stage.
A Fusion of Styles and Generations
Peck, known for his work as New York City Ballet's resident choreographer and for choreographing the Oscar-winning film West Side Story, has created a work that seamlessly blends classical ballet technique with modern athleticism. The production features original costumes by renowned fashion designer Ellen Warren and set designs by visual artist Mohsin Naveed, creating a visually stunning environment that complements Peck's dynamic choreography.
The company's principal dancers, including Marianela Núñez and William Bracewell, deliver powerful performances that showcase both technical precision and emotional depth. Peck's choreography makes innovative use of the Royal Ballet's corps de ballet, creating intricate patterns and movements that transform the stage into a living, breathing artwork.
Behind the Creative Vision
Speaking about his collaboration with the Royal Ballet, Peck emphasized the unique opportunity to work with dancers trained in the British tradition. The production features an original score by British composer Isobel Waller-Bridge, whose music provides the rhythmic foundation for Peck's complex arrangements. The lighting design, created by veteran theatre designer Mimi Jordan Sherin, enhances the emotional landscape of the piece through dramatic contrasts and subtle transitions.
Royal Ballet director Kevin O'Hare described the partnership as "a meeting of two distinct dance cultures that has produced something truly extraordinary." The collaboration represents part of the company's ongoing commitment to inviting international choreographers to create new works, following recent commissions by Crystal Pite and Christopher Wheeldon.
Setting a New Standard for Ballet
The premiere has generated significant excitement within the dance community, with critics praising Peck's ability to maintain the Royal Ballet's classical excellence while injecting fresh energy and contemporary relevance. The production features several standout moments, including a breathtaking pas de deux that demonstrates Peck's gift for creating intimate, emotionally charged duets amidst larger ensemble pieces.
Early reviews have highlighted the production's visual spectacle and innovative approach to storytelling through movement. The integration of Ellen Warren's costume designs allows for greater freedom of movement while creating a distinctive aesthetic that bridges traditional and modern ballet. Mohsin Naveed's set designs incorporate moving elements that transform throughout the performance, reflecting the evolving emotional journey of the dancers.
This landmark production is scheduled to run throughout the Royal Ballet's 2025-2026 season, with additional performances already added due to high demand. The company has announced plans to include Peck's work in future repertoires, signaling a long-term relationship between the choreographer and one of the world's most prestigious ballet institutions.
