THE Mayflower will be presenting two shows from the world-class dance company, Northern Ballet in May 2014 as part of its new programming.

Under the artistic direction of David Nixon OBE, Northern Ballet has an established reputation for creating highquality and inspirational new full-length ballets.

Northern Ballet’s 40 classical dancers and 27-strong Sinfonia perform to more than 120,000 people across the UK each year and now audiences in Southampton can experience for themselves the talents of this extraordinary award-winning company.

Their version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be in Southampton from May 28 to 31 and as well as a children’s production of Three Little Pigs on May 30.

Northern Ballet’s Olivier Award-nominated A Midsummer Night’s Dream sees the romantic antics of a touring dance company played out on one magical night as the company travels by sleeper train from London to Edinburgh.

It’s the final rehearsal and emotions run high as artistic temperaments clash with romantic entanglements.

The time comes to leave for Edinburgh but the tensions continue on board the train and as the company settle down for the night, the train enters a tunnel and the dream begins.

The company will also be bringing the classic fairy-tale Three Little Pigs to life; the show is a perfect opportunity to introduce little ones to the magic of ballet, music and theatre.

Tickets go on sale on Friday.