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About the show
Celebrating 20 years of world-class ballet! The Ballet Icons Gala returns for its landmark anniversary featuring stars from The Royal Ballet
What is the Ballet Icons Gala?
The Ballet Icons Gala returns in full splendour to the stage of the London Coliseum on 15 February 2026 to mark its 20th anniversary, a magnificent celebration of two decades of world-class ballet. This unforgettable evening will showcase a breathtaking programme of classical and contemporary masterpieces, including world premieres and exclusive anniversary commissions created especially for the occasion.
Widely recognised as one of the most exceptional events on the global ballet calendar, the Gala will be accompanied by the English National Ballet Philharmonic Orchestra, adding further grandeur to this landmark occasion. Book Ballet Icons Gala tickets for one magical night of dance!
Why should I book Ballet Icons Gala tickets?
The Gala features a stellar international cast of ballet stars from the world's most prestigious companies, including The Royal Ballet, La Scala, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, Berlin State Ballet, Vienna Ballet Theatre and Dutch National Ballet.
Audiences can look forward to much-loved classical highlights, rarely performed gems, and exciting contemporary works by Wayne McGregor, Angelin Preljocaj, Marco Goecke, Mthuthuzeli November and Jean-Christophe Maillot. A special highlight is the UK premiere of Asylum by Antonia Franceschi, created in collaboration with Vildwerk Foundation to highlight the world's environmental crisis.
Is the Ballet Icons Gala similar to other London dance events?
The Ballet Icons Gala is a unique annual event bringing together the world's greatest dancers for one night only. Dance enthusiasts may also enjoy productions by English National Ballet at the London Coliseum.
Performance schedule
Cast & Creatives
Full cast & creativesWho is performing at the Ballet Icons Gala 2026?
The 2026 cast features over 30 international stars including: Francesca Hayward, Vadim Muntagirov, Marianela Núñez OBE, Natalia Osipova, Fumi Kaneko, Reece Clarke, Anna Rose O'Sullivan (The Royal Ballet); Isaac Hernández, Catherine Hurlin (American Ballet Theatre); Paul Marque (Paris Opera Ballet); Nicoletta Manni, Timofej Andriyashenko (La Scala); Marcellino Sambé, Daniil Simkin, Edward Watson MBE, Eleanora Abbagnato, Matthew Golding, Lucia Lacarra, Maia Makhateli, Ksenia Ovsyanick and many more.
Who created the Ballet Icons Gala?
The Ballet Icons Gala is founded and directed by Olga Balakeets. The 2026 20th Anniversary Gala features choreography by Wayne McGregor, Angelin Preljocaj, Marco Goecke, Edwaard Liang, Jason Kittelberger, Mthuthuzeli November and Jean-Christophe Maillot, plus a UK premiere of Asylum by Antonia Franceschi. Accompanied by the English National Ballet Philharmonic Orchestra.
Recognition
The Ballet Icons Gala began 20 years ago to celebrate the 80th birthday of legendary prima ballerina Maia Plisetskaya. It has become one of the most prestigious events in the global dance calendar, renowned for presenting the world's greatest dancers and choreographic masterpieces. The 2026 edition marks a landmark 20th anniversary celebration.
Frequently asked questions
What age is the Ballet Icons Gala suitable for?
The Ballet Icons Gala has an age guidance of 5+. Note that children under 5 are not allowed in the auditorium.
How long is the Ballet Icons Gala?
The Ballet Icons Gala runs approximately 2 hours 30 minutes including one interval. The performance begins at 7pm on Sunday 15 February 2026.
How do I get to London Coliseum?
London Coliseum is located on St Martin's Lane, London WC2N 4ES. The nearest Underground stations are Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines), Charing Cross (Northern and Bakerloo lines) and Embankment (Northern, Bakerloo, District and Circle lines).
Theatre Policies
Photography and video recording are not permitted during the performance. Mobile phones must be switched off before the gala begins. Please note that producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and scheduling.
Accessibility at London Coliseum
London Coliseum has an Access Scheme for audiences with a disability, a health condition, or different access needs. Contact the box office on 020 7845 9300 when booking tickets for specific requirements.
Facilities
The venue features multiple bars and refreshment facilities. An exclusive photography exhibition showcasing highlights from 20 years of the Ballet Icons Gala will accompany the event.
When is the Ballet Icons Gala 2026?
The 20th Anniversary Ballet Icons Gala takes place on 15 February 2026 at 7pm at the London Coliseum.
How long is the Ballet Icons Gala?
The performance runs approximately 2 hours 30 minutes including an interval.
Which dancers are performing at Ballet Icons Gala 2026?
The stellar cast includes Francesca Hayward, Natalia Osipova, Vadim Muntagirov and Marianela Núñez from The Royal Ballet, plus international stars from American Ballet Theatre, Paris Opera Ballet, La Scala, Dutch National Ballet and more.
Is the Ballet Icons Gala suitable for children?
The event is suitable for ages 5 and above. Children under 5 will not be admitted.
What makes the 2026 Gala special?
This landmark 20th anniversary edition features world premieres, exclusive anniversary commissions, and the UK premiere of Asylum by choreographer Antonia Franceschi.
Venue
London Coliseum
Charing Cross, Leicester Square
Charing Cross
3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 29, 53, 77a, 88, 91, 139, 159, 176
Cavendish Square, Newport Place, Marble Arch and Park Lane, Poland Street, Rochester Row, Spring Gardens, Whitcomb Street (50% discount for ENO Patrons). Chinatown, Trafalgar (Q Park scheme)

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The Ballet Icons Gala






