The Royal Ballet and Factory International have announced the full cast for the world premiere of A Single Man, a new contemporary ballet based on Christopher Isherwood’s acclaimed 1964 novel.
The production will debut at Aviva Studios in Manchester from 2–6 July 2025 before transferring to the Royal Opera House’s Linbury Theatre from 8–20 September 2025.
Leading the cast is former Royal Ballet Principal Ed Watson, who will perform the role of George in Manchester, except on Saturday 5 July. On that date, the role will be danced by Jonathan Goddard, who will also perform as Jim in all other performances.
Joining them on stage is a dynamic ensemble of performers including Harry Alexander, Naia Bautista, Laura Careless, Felicity Chadwick, Winnie Dias, Elle Fierce, James Hay (Royal Ballet First Soloist), Chester Hayes, Greig Matthews, Kristen McNally (Royal Ballet Principal Character Artist), Marie Astrid Mence, Nina Murphy, and James Stephens.
This new adaptation is directed and choreographed by Jonathan Watkins, with original songs by John Grant and a score by Jasmin Kent Rodgman. Grant will perform live at every show, accompanied by musicians from the Manchester Collective.
“When Jonathan Watkins got in touch to ask me to write songs for a production of Christopher Isherwood’s A Single Man, I was certainly intrigued,” said Grant. “After meeting with Jonathan and hearing him speak about his passion and vision for the project I knew I had to have a part in interpreting this masterpiece for the stage. It is truly an honour.”
Rodgman added: “It’s an honour to breathe musical life into this seminal queer work on grief, love and being human. Shaping this ballet together, fusing my score with songs from the inimitable John Grant—I think we’ve created something incredibly special here.”
Watkins said: “This poetic novel is an inspiring and complex story of the human experience and what it means to be alive. I am passionate about Queer stories being represented on the stage in this way and proud that the production is included in the wonderful creative activity that is Manchester International Festival.”
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
