Northern Ballet announces new original work: Gentleman Jack

Northern Ballet is thrilled to announce the creation of a major new full-length ballet based on the extraordinary life of Anne Lister, or 'Gentleman Jack' (1791-1840), the historical Yorkshire figure often referred to as 'the first modern lesbian' whose diaries have captivated audiences around the world. Gentleman Jack will open in Leeds before touring to Sheffield, Nottingham, Salford, London and Norwich in spring 2026 with live music.

As Northern Ballet's first large-scale commission since 2021 and the first under Artistic Director Federico Bonelli, Gentleman Jack marks a significant milestone for the organisation. This new ballet will explore the narrative of this fiercely independent woman who defied societal norms and expectations, presenting a unique opportunity to tell her story through the powerful medium of dance.

Anne Lister's remarkable life inspired the hugely popular and critically acclaimed BBC/HBO series, Gentleman Jack, written by Sally Wainwright and starring Suranne Jones. The series, which premiered in 2019, brought her story to a global audience and highlighted her relationships with other women. Now, Northern Ballet will be the first to bring this narrative centring on a gay woman to the classical ballet stage in a groundbreaking production.

A carefully selected artistic team will ensure that Anne Lister's story is staged with respect and maximum impact including Sally Wainwright, series-writer of Gentleman Jack; choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and New Zealand-based composer Claire Cowan who will create a new score for Gentleman Jack.

Artistic Director Federico Bonelli said:

"Northern Ballet is renowned for our expert storytelling and mastery of ballet technique, and this production will be no exception. Like many, I first became aware of Anne Lister through the BBC drama in 2019 and have been fascinated by how the traditionally gendered language of classical ballet could be adapted to convey her story.

As an organisation, our aim is to break down barriers to world class ballet for larger and more diverse audiences. It is my vision to diversify the stories represented in ballet, and add to the landscape of the dance sector through stories that connect with audiences. Anne Lister’s story, the story of someone many call the first modern lesbian, is a perspective we rarely see represented through ballet. With her connection to our home in Yorkshire it feels like a perfect fit, and I am thrilled that Annabelle Lopez Ochoa will choreograph this ballet alongside a talented creative team."

Further details of Gentleman Jack's tour will be announced in spring 2025. To find out more about the ballet and sign up to receive the latest behind the scenes content and updates, visit northernballet.com/gentleman-jack.