Royal Ballet on the Big Screen: London’s Finest Performances in Budapest
Experience the elegance and artistry of London’s Royal Ballet without leaving Budapest. The Uránia National Film Theatre brings world-class ballet performances to Hungarian audiences through stunning cinema broadcasts during the 2025/26 season, offering ballet enthusiasts a unique opportunity to witness these masterpieces in an intimate theater setting.
Event Details
Season: November 6, 2025 – March 8, 2026
Location: Uránia National Film Theatre, Grand Hall (Díszterem)
Number of Performances: Five recorded broadcasts from the Royal Ballet
Ticket Price: 4,900 HUF (regular), 4,500 HUF (discount for purchasing tickets to at least three different performances at once)
Where to Buy: Uránia box office, online at Uránia’s website, or through the Interticket network
Best deals of Budapest
Performance Schedule
A Fille Mal Gardée by Hérold
Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
This charming comic ballet tells the lighthearted story of young lovers overcoming obstacles to be together. Known for its playful choreography and pastoral setting, this production showcases the Royal Ballet’s ability to bring humor and warmth to the stage.
Cinderella by Prokofiev
Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Prokofiev’s enchanting score brings the beloved fairy tale to life in this magical production. Watch as the Royal Ballet transforms the classic story of the downtrodden girl who finds her prince into a breathtaking spectacle of dance and music.
The Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky
Date: Thursday, December 25, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Celebrate Christmas Day with one of ballet’s most beloved holiday traditions. Tchaikovsky’s iconic score accompanies the magical journey of Clara and her Nutcracker prince through the Land of Sweets, featuring the famous Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and other timeless moments.
Woolf Works by Wayne McGregor
Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM
This contemporary masterpiece draws inspiration from the writings of Virginia Woolf, offering a modern interpretation through innovative choreography. Wayne McGregor’s bold vision creates a thought-provoking experience that pushes the boundaries of classical ballet.
Giselle by Adam
Date: Sunday, March 8, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM
One of the most romantic ballets in the classical repertoire, Giselle tells the tragic story of a peasant girl who dies of a broken heart and returns as a spirit to save her beloved. This production showcases the Royal Ballet’s technical precision and emotional depth.
Why Attend Ballet Screenings
Watching ballet on the big screen offers unique advantages that even theater seats cannot provide. Close-up camera work allows you to appreciate the dancers’ expressions, the intricate details of costumes, and the precise footwork that might be missed from traditional theater seating. The Uránia’s Grand Hall provides an atmospheric setting that enhances the cinematic experience while maintaining the intimacy of a live performance.
For visitors to Budapest, these screenings offer a taste of London’s prestigious Royal Ballet at a fraction of the cost of attending a live performance in the UK. The broadcasts capture the energy and artistry of world-renowned dancers, making high-quality ballet accessible to everyone.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Late Arrival Policy: If you arrive after the performance begins, you can only take seats in the upper side balcony. Latecomers will be able to occupy their assigned seats during the intermission, so plan to arrive with time to spare.
Discount Opportunity: Save 400 HUF per ticket by purchasing tickets to at least three different performances in the season simultaneously. This makes it more affordable to experience the full range of classical and contemporary works offered.
Language: While the performances are from London, ballet is a universal language told through movement and music. The visual storytelling transcends language barriers, making these screenings perfect for international visitors.
Location: The Uránia National Film Theatre is centrally located in Budapest’s 8th district, easily accessible by public transportation. The historic building itself is worth admiring, with its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture adding to the cultural experience.
A Tradition of Excellence
The Uránia National Film Theatre has been bringing performances from the world’s best ballet stages to Budapest audiences for years. This commitment to cultural programming allows Hungarian and visiting audiences alike to experience international dance excellence without traveling abroad. The 2025/26 season continues this tradition with carefully selected works that span both classical favorites and contemporary innovations.
Whether you’re a devoted ballet enthusiast or simply curious about this elegant art form, these Royal Ballet screenings provide an accessible and enriching cultural experience during your visit to Budapest. The combination of world-class performances, affordable pricing, and the historic Uránia venue creates an unforgettable afternoon of artistry and beauty.