Birmingham Royal Ballet announces world premiere of The Maiden of Venice

The Maiden of Venice, Carlos Acosta’s reimagining of the 19th-century classic, La Bayadère, will receive its world premiere at Birmingham Hippodrome in September 2026.

It is the first time Birmingham Royal Ballet has had a full-length La Bayadère in its repertory. 

Director of Birmingham Royal Ballet, Carlos Acosta, said: “Since arriving at BRB five years ago I have always had a vision of re-making La Bayadère.

“It is such an important ballet - to me personally, but also to the sector and to audiences.

“I understand why it has become problematic, but I feel passionate about not allowing it to be buried or to be, in effect, cancelled.

“There are so many reasons why moving it to Renaissance Venice works so well for the storytelling, and I am so happy that my Company of amazing dancers will have the opportunity to perform this new version.”

Production set and costume designer, Anna Fleischle, said: “It is such a gift to be working with Carlos on a bold re-imagination of this piece. Crafting a vision of Venice - its haunted beauty and mystery illuminated by the ever-shifting presence of water, light, and reflection.”

The Maiden of Venice will premiere at the Birmingham Hippodrome from 26 September to 3 October 2026. The official opening night will be Tuesday 29 September.

Tickets go on general sale on Tuesday 20 May.

The Maiden of Venice will be made possible thanks to support from Oak Foundation, Aud Jebsen and Cockayne Grants for the Arts, a Donor Advised Fund, held at The Prism Charitable Trust.

BRB will shortly be launching The Maiden of Venice Giving Circle, an opportunity for individuals to support the creation of this exciting new production and enjoy special access to the creative process.

Pictured: Frieda Kaden - credit Johan Persson