Dance in London: 56 events this week (27 Jul to 1 Aug)

Dance runs deep in London, both on stage and on the floor. The city is a world centre for dance performance, home to major companies and a constant stream of touring and independent work, and at the same time it has a thriving culture of classes and social dances where anyone can take part. The same word covers two very different nights out: watching world-class dancers from a theatre seat, or learning the steps yourself in a studio or hall.

On the performance side, the range spans classical ballet, contemporary and modern dance, flamenco, tap, and the experimental edges of the form. The big venues anchor the classical and large-scale work, while a network of smaller theatres and arts centres carries the contemporary and independent end, where new choreographers and companies show their work. Across a single season you can see everything from a full-length narrative ballet to a stripped-back solo piece in a studio theatre.

The participatory side is just as strong. London is full of dance classes and socials across every style: salsa, bachata, and other Latin dances, swing and lindy hop, tango, ballroom, ballet and contemporary for adults, hip-hop and street, plus the social nights where people put what they learn into practice. Many sessions welcome absolute beginners with no partner needed, which makes them an easy and sociable way into the form, whether you want a one-off taster or a regular weekly class.

A few practical notes. Tickets for dance performances range from inexpensive studio shows to premium seats for the major companies, and the popular runs sell out ahead. Classes and socials are usually low-cost and often pay-on-the-night for drop-ins, though some courses run as blocks you book up front. For classes, check the level and whether you need a partner, since most beginner sessions need neither. The listings below pull together the dance shows, classes, and socials on across the city now.