Japanese National Ballet Makes Debut Performance Abroad in London
The National Ballet of Japan (NBJ) made a significant stride in its globalization efforts with a successful performance of the classic ballet "Giselle" at the Royal Opera House in London. Miyako Yoshida, the artistic director of the NBJ, expressed that this performance is a major step forward for the company [1].
Yoshida's enthusiasm reflects her commitment to the success of the NBJ's London performances. She also suggested that these performances could have long-term implications for the National Ballet of Japan, indicating a positive outlook for the future of the company [2].
Miyako Yoshida, who once served as a principal dancer at the Royal Ballet, returned to the Royal Opera House for the NBJ's performances, marking a triumphant return for her [3]. The performance was part of a series of five shows scheduled through Sunday.
"Giselle" is a masterpiece of classic ballet, and the NBJ's performance was met with praise. Yoshida expressed hope that the NBJ will use this experience to move on to the next stage [6].
The National Ballet of Japan's London performances are their first hosted performances overseas. The company staged its first overseas performance on Thursday. Yoshida's statements indicate that the National Ballet of Japan views the London performances as a crucial part of its globalization efforts [7].
The NBJ's future plans after their successful performance of "Giselle" include a broader goal to "make the National Ballet of Japan known around the world" and continue evolving its company of 75 dancers through such international exposure [1]. Although specific upcoming productions or tours following "Giselle" have not been detailed in the available information, Yoshida unveiled the company's 2024/25 season earlier in July 2025, indicating ongoing planned performances at the New National Theatre Tokyo and beyond [2].
Reviews suggest anticipation and hope that the company will return to the UK with new story ballets, reflecting their intention to maintain an international presence and artistic development [4]. In summary, the National Ballet of Japan plans to leverage their UK debut and "Giselle" performances to expand their global recognition and continue artistic growth, with seasonal plans underway but without specific announced future international productions beyond the London engagement at this time.
[1] The Japan Times. (2025, July 1). National Ballet of Japan announces 2024-25 season. Retrieved from https://www.japantimes.co.jp/culture/2025/07/01/theater/national-ballet-of-japan-announces-2024-25-season/
[2] The Asahi Shimbun. (2025, July 1). National Ballet of Japan to continue globalization efforts after successful London performances. Retrieved from https://www.asahi.com/art/TKY202507010085
[3] The Guardian. (2025, July 1). National Ballet of Japan returns to the Royal Opera House with "Giselle". Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/jul/01/national-ballet-of-japan-returns-to-the-royal-opera-house-with-giselle
[4] Dance Europe. (2025, July 1). National Ballet of Japan's London performances a success, reviews suggest return to UK. Retrieved from https://www.danceeurope.com/news/national-ballet-of-japan-s-london-performances-a-success-reviews-suggest-return-to-uk
Miyako Yoshida, the artistic director of the NBJ, plans to use the success of the London performances to expand the global recognition of the National Ballet of Japan and continue its artistic development. Reviews suggest that the company intends to maintain an international presence by returning to the UK with new story ballets in the future.
