Synopsis The Royal Ballet of Flanders has for more than 30 years been the flagship of classical ballet in Flanders, and now enjoys the distinction of being the only classical dance company in Belgium. Artifact was the first ballet that William Forsythe created after becoming director of the Frankfurt Ballet in 1984. It has been described as "a masterpiece" and "a work that definitively shows Forsythe as the most influential practitioner of the art form since Balanchine" (New York Times). Nearly 30 years after its premiere, Sadler's Wells is proud to present this seminal piece performed by one of Europe's most respected dance companies, Royal Ballet of Flanders. A ballet in four parts, Artifact features music by J.S. Bach and scenography, lighting, costumes and choreography all by William Forsythe. It is famous for the way it subverts the traditional physical principles of ballet and plays with audiences ideas about what ballet can be. Running time: 1hr 49mins (including one 20min interval)
Closed 23 June 96 to October 98 for a £48million refurbishment. On 3 Jun 1683 a Mr Sadler opened a pleasure garden at a country spring, this became known as Sadler's Wells. A wooden stage, later enclosed, there was known as Miles' Musik House. Theatre started in 1753. In 1765 a new theatre was opened. For a period it was the Aquatic Theatre with a floodable tank on stage, reverting to its current name in 1844. Closed in 1878 (had been a skating rink and a boxing ring). Re-opened 1879. Closed in 1906. Lilian Baylis opened a theatre there in 1931. Lilian Baylis was the niece of Emma Cons, the first woman member of the LCC and the freeholder of the Royal Victoria Hall and Coffee Tavern (now the Old Vic). Became a solely ballet and opera venue in 1934. Sadler's Wells was the original home of the Royal Ballet (then the Sadler's Wells Ballet) and the opera company from here moved on to the Coliseum. 1500 seats. Now has its own well back in use for the cooling system and bottled water. Very major refurbishment completed in 1998. Society of London Theatre member.
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