1946 – First performances by Sadler’s Wells Opera Ballet, later Sadler’s Wells Theatre Ballet

Having appeared in operas at Sadler’s Wells, the new Sadler’s Wells Opera Ballet’s first purely ballet evening took place on 8 April, 1946, with a programme comprising Ninette de Valois’ 1943 Promenade, Andrée Howard’s Assembly Ball and finishing with the final act of The Nutcracker. The ensemble quickly became a successful touring branch of the Sadler’s Wells operation, using the senior students of the Sadler’s Wells Ballet School in productions led by principals and soloists including June Brae, Alan Carter and Leo Kersley. The company changed its name to Sadler’s Wells Theatre Ballet in 1947. The young Kenneth MacMillan and John Cranko were provided their first choreographic opportunities with the company that would have an interesting journey, eventually morphing into Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet and then Birmingham Royal Ballet. Celia Franca’s Khadra was another successful work during the first season, premiering at Sadler’s Wells on 27 May, and starring Sheilah O’Reilly, Kersley and Anne Heaton.