The epicentre of an empire

Many of Britain’s most creative choreographic thoroughbreds are stabled and watered at Sadler’s Wells where they are advised and mentored by Alistair Spalding, the most influential man in Brit-ish modern dance. He is the Chief Executive and Artistic Director of Sadler’s Wells Theatre and has transformed his new building, on its immensely important historic site, into the creative power-house of the United Kingdom and his influence is felt both in Britain and abroad.

 
It is worth noting that Sadler’s Wells has had achequered history since 1931, when Lilian Baylis opened one of many theatres to have stood on thesite and oversaw the work of Ninette de Valois and the company that was to become the Royal Ballet. The Sadler’s Wells Opera company developed during the same period and ultimately became English National Opera based at the London Coliseum. During the Baylis years, and after, the Wells was a centre of creativity but under various directors struggled financially and, after the departure of the resident companies, eventually became a receiving house for touring companies, largely from abroad. The new theatre, built in time for the new millennium, is London’s premier dance house ...