29 Jun 2022
Royal Ballet Gala: Cast and Programme Changes

We have just learned from The Royal Ballet that Lauren Cuthbertson is regrettably unable to participate in the Royal Ballet Gala as originally planned due to health reasons. We are sorry for any disappointment caused. Changes to the repertory will bring Edward Watson, former Principal of The Royal Ballet, back to the stage where he will perform Wayne McGregor's Infra pas de deux with Sarah Lamb in Programme A. In Programme B he will perform a new solo created especially for this gala by renowned choreographer Arthur Pita. William Bracewell will now be joined in Programme A by First Artist Mariko Sasaki for the Act II (White Swan) pas de deux from Swan Lake. Please see the changes to the programme below.

We apologise to our valued audiences who have been anticipating the appearance of Lauren Cuthbertson, but appreciate everyone's kind understanding. At the same time, we hope you will enjoy the exuberant performances by all the Company's dancers in attendance led by Director Kevin O'Hare, as well as the pre-performance talk by the Director on Sunday 17 July.

Changes in Cast and Programmes

Programme A

• Act 2 Pas de deux from Swan Lake (Dancers: Mariko Sasaki and William Bracewell) will replace the Black Swan Pas de deux from Swan Lake (Dancers: Lauren Cuthbertson and William Bracewell).

• Infra pas de deux (Choreography: Wayne McGregor, Dancers: Sarah Lamb and Edward Watson) will replace Five Brahms Waltzes in the Manner of Isadora Duncan (Dancer: Lauren Cuthbertson)

Programme B

• Meditation from Thaïs will now be danced by Sarah Lamb and Ryoichi Hirano.

• A new solo by Arthur Pita (Dancer: Edward Watson)  will replace Le Parc pas de deux (Dancers: Lauren Cuthbertson and Ryoichi Hirano)

*Casting and programmes as of 29 June 2022 are subject to change.

Japan Performing Arts Foundation (NBS)