The Southbank Centre in London is set to captivate audiences once again with its exhilarating 2024-2025 Performance and Dance programme. This vibrant season features a stunning lineup of international performances, contemporary collaborations, and brand-new works by acclaimed artists from around the world. From the UK and Ireland to Nigeria, Poland, Australia, Canada, and beyond, the Southbank Centre’s diverse offering promises unforgettable experiences for all.

Unveiling the International Programme:

1. Shechter II: From England with Love – Kicking off the season is an awe-inspiring work by Hofesh Shechter. From England with Love” is a powerful exploration of England’s complex identity, combining classical composition with rock, choral song, and electronic music. The dancers delve into the nation’s history and traditions, taking audiences on a journey of self-discovery.
2. The QDance Company’s Re:INCARNATION – The Nigerian dance sensation, led by choreographer Qudus Onikeku, makes its UK debut with “Re:INCARNATION.” This dynamic performance merges Yoruba philosophy with Nigerian youth culture, offering an explosive and culturally rich experience.
3. Chunky Move’s 4/4 – Australia’s Chunky Move presents “4/4,” a mesmerizing display of precision and endurance. This performance, choreographed by Antony Hamilton, showcases the diverse artistic backgrounds of its eight dancers, offering a uniquely Australian dance experience.
4. Dragon Ladies Don’t Weep and Haribo Kimchi – For a weekend in May, the Southbank Centre features two performances from South East Asia. “Dragon Ladies Don’t Weep” is a sonic exploration of Margaret Leng Tan’s life and legacy, while “Haribo Kimchi” delves into South Korea’s history through the language of food.
5. In My Body by Crazy Smooth – Canada’s b-boy Crazy Smooth presents “In My Body,” a dynamic exploration of aging in street dance. This performance features an intergenerational cast of top Canadian street dancers, coupled with projections and spoken word.
6. The Employees by Łukasz Twarkowski – In January 2025, Łukasz Twarkowski introduces “The Employees,” a thought-provoking multidisciplinary play exploring the relationship between humans and robots. Set in a distant future, this innovative production delves into contemporary issues in a technology-driven society.
7. London International Festival of Theatre (LIFT) – LIFT returns with two groundbreaking shows: “As You Like It: A Radical Retelling” by Cliff Cardinal, and “L’Homme rare” choreographed by Nadia Beugré. These performances delve into dark humor, gender perceptions, and historical perspectives.
8. Forced Entertainment’s 40th Anniversary – Sheffield-based theatre company Forced Entertainment celebrates its 40th year with a London-wide program in partnership with the Southbank Centre. The season includes “Signal to Noise,” “Tim Etchells & Tony Buck: Go On Like This,” and a revival of “12am: Awake and Looking Down.”
9. Adrienne Truscott and Brokentalkers’ Masterclass – “Masterclass” is a thought-provoking examination of gender and power in the arts world, presented in a humorous TV talk show format. This collaboration between Adrienne Truscott and Brokentalkers promises to be a hilarious and impactful performance.

The Southbank Centre’s 2024-2025 Performance and Dance programme promises to be a thrilling journey through the world of contemporary dance and theater. Audiences can expect diverse and groundbreaking performances from artists spanning the globe, reinforcing the Southbank Centre’s reputation as a creative hub for arts and culture. With new commissions and UK premieres, this season is set to leave a lasting impact on London’s arts scene. Tickets go on sale soon, and this is an opportunity not to be missed for lovers of dance and theater in the heart of London.