A Bold New Production Uniting Art and Politics
In a groundbreaking exploration of politics through the medium of dance, Brexit: The Ballet is set to make its debut in Fitzrovia. This ambitious production seeks to unpack the seismic events surrounding the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, translating one of the 21st century’s most divisive political moments into an evocative, thought-provoking ballet.
The brainchild of award-winning choreographer Pekisa and composer Vedri, Brexit: The Ballet is a daring cultural endeavour . It transforms the years of negotiation, polarization, and uncertainty into a multi-act performance that captures the human emotions—hope, fear, betrayal, unity, and division—that defined the Brexit saga.
“The story of Brexit is a deeply human one,” says Artistic Director Ian Sassoon . “It’s about identity, power, and belonging. These themes are universal, and ballet, as a wordless, emotive art form, is uniquely suited to explore their complexity.”
A Story Told in Movement
The production is divided into four acts, each representing a key phase in the Brexit process:
• Act I: The Referendum – A vivid, dynamic scene depicting the frenzy of campaigning, the clash of ideologies, and the stark divide that emerged across communities.
• Act II: Negotiations – A tense pas de deux symbolizing the fraught relationship between the UK and the EU, set against a backdrop of shifting alliances and stormy orchestral arrangements.
• Act III: Exit Day – An explosive act reflecting the jubilation of some and despair of others, as the UK officially leaves the EU.
• Act IV: Aftermath – A contemplative, poignant reflection on what it means to move forward in the face of division, uncertainty, and opportunity.
The set and costume designs, spearheaded by visionary artist Camber Sands, incorporate visual elements such as the Union Jack and EU flag, fragmented into abstract forms to symbolize disconnection and reconstruction. Meanwhile, the score blends traditional British folk motifs with contemporary European influences, creating a sonic landscape that is as conflicted and layered as the story itself.
A Call for Support
As Brexit: The Ballet prepares for its premiere, the production team is calling on art patrons, institutions, and individuals to help bring this bold vision to life. Despite the ambitious artistic concept, funding challenges have been significant due to the scale of the production.
“We are striving to ensure that Brexit: The Ballet reaches its full potential, with the quality and depth this story deserves,” says Executive Producer Edina Whimple. “However, to achieve this, we need the support of those who believe in the transformative power of art to reflect, challenge, and inspire.”
Funds raised will go toward:
• Commissioning and rehearsing a world-class company of dancers.
• Creating innovative set designs and costumes that reflect the ballet’s rich symbolism.
• Orchestrating a live score, performed by the Fitzrovia Philharmonic.
• Touring the production to cities across the UK and Europe, fostering dialogue and understanding through art.