Made in Leeds review — from graceful gloom to balletic breakdancing

★★★☆☆The former Royal Ballet star Federico Bonelli took over as director of Northern Ballet barely six months ago, so it’s too soon to see what specific plans he may have for the Leeds-based company. The programme he brings to London – diverse and challenging – embraces a trio of new ballets that began life under the previous director, David Nixon.

Mthuthuzeli November’s Wailers opens Made in Leeds with heartfelt intentions. The South African-born choreographer draws on his roots and especially the life of his mother (who brought up four boys in a township by herself) to create, in the words of the text, “a dance to the wail of relentless suffering” that also gives thanks to life.

November places a dozen dancers on stage

© Times Newspapers Limited 2022.

Registered in England No. 894646. Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, SE1 9GF.