Contemporary Dance at Lowry

From compelling solo shows to awe-inspiring ensemble pieces, Lowry bring another unmissable season of contemporary dance.

With folk-inspired kathak, thrilling circus and undulating hip hop alongside unique VR experiences and Latin-infused ballet classics, it’s an eclectic and intriguing programme featuring some of the most exciting dance artists working in the world today.

Pagrav Dance Company return to Salford on 14 January with a gripping new solo performance by the acclaimed choreographer and performer Urja Desai Thakore. Captivating and uplifting, Rooh: Within Her offers a beautiful exploration of everyday female heroism in ancient folklore through contemporary kathak dance.

On 18 January, the Quays Theatre hosts the latest hip hop creation from the award-winning British choreographer Botis Seva. Until We Sleep blends percussion and guttural sounds with pulsating movement to explore stories of resistance and change. Performed by London-based Far From the Norm dance company, you can expect to see a range of different dance styles – from popping to breaking and crump to house – all shaped by Botis Seva, one of the most original voices working in contemporary dance.

In vibrant contrast, Acosta Danza bring the spirit of Cuba to Salford on 27 & 28 January. Featuring new choreography by Carlos Acosta CBE, Nutcracker in Havana offers a tropical new take on the festive ballet favourite complete with a Latin-inspired reworking of Tchaikovsky’s score. Feel the warmth of Cuba without setting foot out of Greater Manchester.

Heading into February, iconic solo artist emilyn claid presents a moving, though dazzling, performance in the intimate setting of the Aldridge Studio. Celebrating a fifty year long career as a performer, Untitled is a reflective and witty show exploring ageing, acceptance and transformation. Seize the opportunity to see this innovative queer British dance artist in her eighth decade.

On 24 February, Wes Peden brings Rollercoaster, a one-hour solo burst of ultra-modern circus. Produced by Gandini Juggling, this thrilling show features original tricks inspired by rollercoasters and their high-tech seatbelts. Expect epic plate-spinning alongside some of the most difficult (and unique) juggling ever performed on stage. Not to be missed.

Georgia Tegou’s Homecoming on the 1 April offers audiences something a little different. Blending movement and narrative with cutting-edge technology, this performance can be experienced in full as an immersive theatre show or via a shorter virtual reality adventure. Dynamic dance meets immersive visual art to trace one woman’s journey to reconnect with her lost sense of self.

Dance, horror and social exploration are the themes tackled in Marikiscrycrycry’s Goner on 2 April. Using psychological, suspense-filled imagery, this unique show uses the sensibilities of horror to explore Caribbean migration, alienation, belonging, addiction, and violence.

So, whether you’re a seasoned dance enthusiast or relishing your first step into the world of contemporary dance, there’s plenty for you to enjoy in 2025.