The opening of Saddlers Wells East in Stratford, London is not just another art venue, but an innovative space for black dancing, creativity and community. As the first new theatre from Sadler’s well in over 20 years, the cutting-edge complex represents more than just a stage or a studio. That’s a statement. For black dancers, choreographers and audiences, it is a much-anticipated home where our stories, rhythms and innovations are centered around, admiring and moving forward.
The reason this space is in the heart of East London is that Sadler’s Wells East, one of the city’s most culturally vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, is designed to break down barriers. It is built for experimentation and accessibility with a 550-seat main theater, flexible studio space and a dedicated community dance studio. But what really sets it apart is its commitment to amplifying dark voices in dance, both on stage and behind the scenes.
“This is more than just a theatre,” says Danehurst, artistic director of the Phoenix Dance Theatre and a leading figure in contemporary British dance. “For too long, black dancers have literally had to fight for the universe in a philosophical way.
Legacy of enhancing black dance
Sadler’s Wells has long been a pioneer in platforming black dancing talent. The current iconic break-in convention, Nina of Ballet Black: Whatever means, productions like Botisseva’s Blkdog, a fierce respect for Nina Simone and an explosive quest for black manhood and mental health, leave an indelible mark in the world of dance. These works not only proved that they challenge norms and regained narratives, but that black dance was not a genre, but a universe of its own.
Now, at Sadler’s Wells East, the facility is doubled its mission. The venue’s opening season will feature groundbreaking tasks such as:
Traploud, an innate fusion of hip-hop, modern and African diasporic movements by Ivan Michael Blackstock, has redefine street dance as high art, as the production interrogated themes of black identity, survival and resilience. “Traproad was more than a show that was a manifesto,” says dancer Jordan Douglas. “It required the raw energy of the streets and turned it into something transcendental. That is the power of this new space that turns our truth into art.”
Far from the standard latest work led by Botis Seva, the acclaimed company returns to another moving piece, combining Seva’s gritty hypnotic style with a new exploration of attribution and displacement. “Botis says Lillian Mbabaji, a Ugandan and British dancer who not only prophesied, but also performed in the production. “Working in this new theatre felt like it was pushing art form into the future with its incredible technology and intimacy.”
What’s next? The future of possibilities
Sadler’s Wells East is investing in the next generation of black dance talent beyond headline productions. The Open Art Surgery Program provides settlements for emerging choreographers, but community initiatives will allow young local dancers to access world-class training to many of the underrated backgrounds.
The theater will not be the only one for the next 50 years, says Julie Felix, a veteran dance educator and founder of Move It Forward. As young black children walk here, they will see themselves reflected on the stage and behind the scenes. It changes everything. ”
Why do you need to be there?
For black viewers, Sadler’s Wells East is more of an experience, statement and celebration than night. Whether you’re a dance lover or a first-time theatre, this is where you witness the future of black creativity.
See the inevitable: Keep an eye on future productions
alesandra seutin – Mimi’s Sea Bean: https://www.sadlerswells.com/whats-on/alesandra-seutin-and-kvs-mimis-shebeen/
Toussaint to move – free: https://www.sadlerswells.com/whats-on/toussaint-to-move-free/
Participation: Workshops, Lectures, Open Rehearsals This is a space intended to be observed, but also to live in.
Claim your space: As Hearst says, “This is our home. Let us fill it with our energy, our stories, our magic.”
Sadler’s Wells East is not only changing the dance, but also changing the game. And for black artists and audiences, it’s worth celebrating.
Source: Pride Magazine – www.pridemagazine.com
