Gentleman Jack arrives at Leeds Grand Theatre for its world premiere this week - date and tickets
Anne Lister was never one to wait for permission, and this week, her legendary spirit finally leaps onto the stage in a way we’ve never seen before.
While the world knows her from the hit TV series, Northern Ballet is about to prove that her life - defined by secret codes, mountain climbing, and defiant love - is perfectly suited to the wordless, visceral power of dance.
Running at the Leeds Grand Theatre from March 7 to 14, this world premiere is the first major commission under Artistic Director Federico Bonelli. It is a co-production of Northern Ballet and Finnish National Opera and Ballet.
Long before she was a global symbol of queer history, Anne Lister was a formidable figure in 19th-century Halifax. A landowner and businesswoman, she lived life entirely on her own terms at Shibden Hall.
Anne left behind five million words in journals, with a significant portion written in a complex ‘crypthand’ code of Greek and algebraic symbols. When finally deciphered, they revealed the intimate truth of her relationships with women.
Known for her masculine dress and top-hat silhouette, she was a pioneer who refused to be constrained by the gendered expectations of her era, with the ballet exploring her relationships with two key women: her devoted life partner, Ann Walker, and her first great love, Mariana Lawton.
The production has already made waves, winning the prestigious FEDORA – VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Dance Prize 2025 for its innovative storytelling approach, and in a move that mirrors Anne's own life, the ballet features a majority-female creative team.
Award-winning choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa is joined by creative consultant Sally Wainwright (the writer/creator of the ‘Gentleman Jack’ TV series) to ensure the grit of the Halifax landscape is captured in every movement.
But don’t expect traditional ‘pink and pretty’ ballet.
Anne is often seen on stage in flat shoes or boots, reflecting her athletic, business-minded nature. At the same time, the choreography blends classical technique with contemporary, grounded energy, and with a brand-new score by Peter Salem performed live by the Northern Ballet Sinfonia, the season will bring the emotional highs and lows of the diaries to life.
When is Gentleman Jack performing at Leeds Grand Theatre?
Gentleman Jack has its world premiere on March 7 at 7:30pm, with the following performances scheduled for its debut season at Leeds Grand Theatre:
- March 10 - 7:30pm
- March 11: 7:30pm
- March 12: 2:30pm and 7:30pm
- March 13: 7:30pm
- March 14: 2:30pm (audio-described matinee) and 7:30pm
Where can I get tickets to Gentleman Jack?
Tickets for the debut season of Gentleman Jack at Leeds Grand Theatre are now on sale and are available from the Leeds Heritage Theatre website.
Prices for the season range between £23 and £82.
The show is rated suitable for those 12 or older, and parental guidance is recommended. Be advised also that the production contains flashing lights, smoke, mist, loud noises, and adult themes