National Ballet of Japan to make historic European debut at the Royal Opera House

This summer, London will welcome a landmark event as the National Ballet of Japan makes its long-awaited European debut at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Taking place from 24–27 July 2025, the performances mark a significant moment in ballet history, as it will be the first time in over 15 years that an Asian dance company has performed on the main stage of this prestigious venue. At the heart of this momentous season is the European premiere of Giselle, reimagined by none other than the company’s Artistic Director, Miyako Yoshida – a celebrated figure in both British and Japanese ballet.

Yui Negishi as Myrta and Artists of National Ballet of Japan, Photograph by Kiyonori Hasegawa.

The occasion also marks an emotional homecoming for Yoshida, who was the first Japanese ballerina to become a Principal dancer at both the Birmingham Royal Ballet and The Royal Ballet. Her tenure from 1988 to 2010 left an indelible mark on British ballet, and in 2007 she was awarded an OBE for her services to dance. Now leading Japan’s premier ballet company, Yoshida brings her artistic vision full circle with this staging of Giselle, featuring additional choreography by British choreographer Alastair Marriott and striking set designs by Dick Bird, inspired by Lithuania’s haunting Hill of Crosses.

Yoshida expressed her gratitude and pride in bringing the National Ballet of Japan to the stage that helped shape her career: “It is with immense joy that I bring our national company to the theatre and city that gave me everything as a dancer.” She also noted the flourishing presence of Japanese dancers across major UK institutions, a testament to the artistic bridge she helped to build. Kevin O’Hare, Director of The Royal Ballet, hailed Yoshida as the “perfect ambassador” for Japan–UK dance relations and celebrated her role in inspiring a new generation of dancers worldwide.

The National Ballet of Japan Principals, Photograph by Yumiko Inoue.

Founded in 1997 and based at the New National Theatre Tokyo, the National Ballet of Japan is the only state-funded ballet company in the country, boasting 75 full-time dancers and a wide-ranging repertoire. Their international appearances, including previous tours to the United States and Russia, have established them as a major force in global ballet. Their London tour, proudly sponsored by the Kinoshita Group and supported by cultural bodies from Japan, promises to be the highlight of the UK’s dance calendar. With performances accompanied by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia under conductor Paul Murphy, this Giselle promises to be a dazzling fusion of East and West, tradition and innovation.

Date: 24 – 27 July 2025. Location: Royal Opera House, Bow St, London WC2E 9DD. Price: £27–£150. Book now.