Woolf Works captivates with masterful brilliance in London

Woolf Works is a groundbreaking modern ballet conceived and choreographed by Wayne McGregor for the Royal Ballet. The 2015 Olivier Award-winning triptych draws inspiration from Virginia Woolf's groundbreaking works including Mrs. Dalloway, Orlando and The Waves, with an original score by Max Richter. The performance is expecting you in London.

Core of the performance

The production captures Woolf's stream-of-consciousness style in three abstract parts: I Now, I Then (Mrs. Dalloway), Tuesday (Orlando) and After (The Waves). It's a poetic mix of dance, light, projections and costumes that explores inner worlds - intense, visually overwhelming and without a traditional narrative. Starring Natalia Osipova and Sarah Lamb, it lasts about 2 h 45 min (with two intermissions), suitable for ages 8+, but with warnings of references to suicide, stroboscopic light and smoke.

Now in London

Woolf Works runs from January 17 to February 13, 2026, at London's Royal Opera House; book via roh.org.uk for shows from £83. Critics praise it as "delightful feeling and radical intellectual intent" - a must-see for modern dance fans.

Top dancers in the cast

Woolf Works by Wayne McGregor features a strong cast of top dancers, with rotating principal roles per performance.

Principal dancers (original and recent casts)

Alessandra Ferri: Iconic Woolf role, winner of Olivier and Critics' Circle Awards for her portrayal.

Natalia Osipova and Sarah Lamb: Fine ballerinas in crucial solos and pas de deux, known for emotional depth.

Federico Bonelli, Edward Watson, Steven McRae and Matthew Ball: Male roles with powerful partnerships.

Other stars

In addition to them, Beatriz Stix-Brunell, Francesca Hayward, Melissa Hamilton and Akane Takada shine in ensemble and leads. Casts will change for the 2026 run (January 17-February 13); check roh.org.uk for specific dates and don't waste any time to book!

(MP/©The Global Entertainment/Illustration: Ahmad Odeh via Unsplash)