Bold Moves, Dare to Dream runs at the O’Reilly Theatre, Belvedere College from 10 to 18 April 2026, bringing together Olivier-nominated choreographer Arthur Pita and rising Irish choreographer Ruaidhri Maguire for a programme that challenges expectations of what a night at the ballet can be. Expect sharp storytelling, bold physicality and a soundtrack that moves from classical to cult pop.

Arthur Pita brings two striking works to Dublin. His acclaimed A Dream Within a Midsummer Night’s Dream takes Shakespeare’s comedy and turns it on its head, shifting from Handel to Eartha Kitt and Barbra Streisand in a surreal, theatrical reworking originally created for Ballet Black. The production received an Olivier nomination and was described by The Guardian as “a rollercoaster of weirdness and surprise”, praised for its wit and bold theatricality.

“I am not interested in polite ballet. I want it to feel surprising, theatrical and alive,” says Pita. “These works take stories people think they know and turn them inside out. I am excited to bring them to Dublin audiences and to create something new with Ballet Ireland that feels bold and immediate.”

He also unveils Storm Scene, a new work inspired by King Lear. Set in the charged stillness before the storm breaks, the piece captures psychological tension and raw physicality, mirroring the violence of nature with inner conflict on stage.

Closing the programme is Linear Flux, a world premiere by Irish choreographer Ruaidhri Maguire. Set to a contemporary score by Peter Gregson, the piece follows dancers as they collide, connect and break apart, tracing the unpredictable paths our lives take.

“This programme brings together international creative energy and a powerful new Irish voice in a way that feels genuinely exciting,” says Anne Maher, Artistic Director of Ballet Ireland. “It is exactly the kind of ambitious, contemporary work we want to share with audiences. There is something truly special about seeing global and local talent combine at this level on an Irish stage.”