Swoon! London City Ballet are positively glowing in a night of dreams – and ghosts from dance history
At Sadler’s Wells in London, Alina Cojocaru graced the stage as a guest dancer with the London City Ballet, delivering a mesmerizing performance in John Neumeier’s ballet 'Ghost Light'. This ethereal piece reflects on the passage of time and the spirits of dancers past, with Cojocaru embodying the haunting beauty reminiscent of Swan Lake’s Odette. Her performance is marked by a delicate grace that captivates the audience, even as she navigates moments of imperfection, such as stumbling over a chair.
Neumeier's choreography evokes a sense of nostalgia, featuring a range of movements from earnest solos to lively duets, illustrating the connections between dancers across time. The ghost light, a single lamp left on stage during dark hours, symbolizes the presence of former dancers, allowing their spirits to linger in the space. This ballet not only showcases Cojocaru's extraordinary talent but also serves as a tribute to the rich history of dance, making it a night to remember for all who attended.
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Summarized by Ballet Trader from The Guardian — Dance.
Read the full article: https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2026/oct/23/london-city-ballet-review-sadlers-wells-london
Neumeier's choreography evokes a sense of nostalgia, featuring a range of movements from earnest solos to lively duets, illustrating the connections between dancers across time. The ghost light, a single lamp left on stage during dark hours, symbolizes the presence of former dancers, allowing their spirits to linger in the space. This ballet not only showcases Cojocaru's extraordinary talent but also serves as a tribute to the rich history of dance, making it a night to remember for all who attended.
—
Summarized by Ballet Trader from The Guardian — Dance.
Read the full article: https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2026/oct/23/london-city-ballet-review-sadlers-wells-london