International success for the National Theatre Ballet. *Dance Europe* magazine praise for its productions and dancers

The annual Critics’ Choice poll presents the views of leading dance critics on the best productions, premieres and performances of the past season. This year’s selection by Alison Kent confirms the National Theatre Ballet’s prominent position on the international dance scene. Alongside leading international companies such as The Royal Ballet, the Bavarian State Ballet and the Dutch National Ballet, Prague-based dancers and productions from the National Theatre’s repertoire have also made their mark.

Six awards for the National Theatre Ballet

The production that attracted the most attention was Liliom, choreographed by John Neumeier, which Alison Kent selected as Production of the Year. This adaptation of Ferenc Molnár’s play of the same name impressed not only as a whole but also through its exceptional performances. Alina Nanu was singled out for her portrayal of Julie, Giovanni Rotolo for the title role of Liliom, and Javier Wong was recognised as a rising talent thanks to his interpretation of Louis.

Significant recognition was also given to the choreography of Lovebirds by Marc Goecke, which was created as part of the Avant-Garde production specifically for the National Theatre Ballet in its world premiere. Alison Kent included it amongst the Best Premieres of the past season and singled out Mathias Deneux for an outstanding male dance performance.

Overview of all six placements in Alison Kent’s selection:

• Production of the Year: Liliom – choreography by John Neumeier
• Outstanding Female Dance Performance: Alina Nanu for the role of Julia in the production of Liliom
• Outstanding Male Dance Performance: Giovanni Rotolo for the title role in Liliom
• Outstanding Male Dance Performance: Mathias Deneux for his performance in Lovebirds (Avant-Garde)
• Best Premieres: Lovebirds – choreography by Marco Goecke
• New Name to Watch: Javier Wong for the role of Louis in Liliom

Giovanni Rotolo among the nominees for Dancer of the Year

However, the international recognition for Giovanni Rotolo does not end there. The principal dancer of the National Theatre Ballet and recent winner of the Thalia Award has also been shortlisted among the six nominees for the prestigious title of Dancer of the Year 2026, the winner of which is decided by the readers of Dance Europe magazine.

Alongside him, Alina Cojocaru, Marianela Núñez, Giorgi Potskhishvili, Osiel Gouneo and William Bracewell are in the running for the title.

The public can also take part in the vote until 31 October 2026. Readers can cast their vote by email to dancer@danceeurope.net or via WhatsApp to +44 7981 945320. Voters must state their name, and each participant may vote only once.

International recognition for the entire company

Success in the Critics’ Choice poll is a tribute not only to the individual dancers, but also to the artistic work of the entire company and its collaboration with leading international choreographers.

John Neumeier’s Liliom holds a special place in this success. The National Theatre Ballet became the first company outside the Hamburg Ballet to stage this work.

Moreover, the Prague production has transcended the borders of the Czech Republic: its set design and costumes are also being used by the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago.

The inclusion of the production Liliom and the choreography Lovebirds in the selection by an internationally respected critic, together with the recognition for four dancers, confirms that the work of the National Theatre Ballet is meeting with a significant response even beyond the borders of the Czech Republic.

We warmly congratulate all the dancers, choreographers and other members of the production teams, and thank them for their work, thanks to which the National Theatre Ballet is consolidating its place on the international dance scene.