English National Ballet announces free Open House Festival
On Saturday 19 September, English National Ballet invites everyone to step inside as it opens its doors as part of Open House Festival 2026.
Throughout the day visitors will have the chance to explore English National Ballet’s award-winning home in East London and discover the inner workings of a professional ballet company. As part of this city-wide celebration of architecture and creativity, English National Ballet will offer a packed programme of free events, giving people of all ages the chance to experience the magic of live dance and music up close.
From watching the dancers and musicians rehearse to taking a behind the scenes tour, visitors can discover how world-class ballet is brought to life. During the day there will be opportunities to join workshops, meet the talented teams who make each production possible, explore costumes and exhibitions, enjoy wigs and make-up demos, and more.
Aaron S. Watkin, Artistic Director of English National Ballet, said: “We’re excited to welcome everyone into our home again this year for Open House Festival. This is where we create, rehearse and come together every day, and we’re thrilled to share that experience with visitors. Whether you’re discovering ballet for the first time or have loved it for years, we hope you feel inspired to explore, ask questions, and experience the energy that goes into all that we do here at English National Ballet.”
English National Ballet’s Open House Festival will offer a free behind-the-scenes look at the Company, with audiences able to watch Company class, dancer rehearsals and the ENB Philharmonic Orchestra in action, as well as hear from English National Ballet artists.
The day will include a 10am Company class, a BSL-interpreted dancer rehearsal at 11:15am, a further dancer rehearsal at 12:15pm and an orchestra appearance at 1:30pm. Visitors can also take part in Family Dance, Adult Ballet and an all-ages Bhangra Ceilidh, while guided tours will explore the RIBA Award-winning Mulryan Centre for Dance, including a BSL-interpreted tour at 1pm.
Exhibitions exploring the Company’s history, costumes and the workings of a professional ballet company, along with wigs and make-up demonstrations and arts and crafts inspired by Romeo & Juliet, will be available throughout the day.
All events are free. Building tours and workshops need to be booked in advance. Bookings are now open. Please visit Open House Festival 2026 – English National Ballet for more information and booking details.
English National Ballet Open House Festival. Image courtesy ENB.