Matthew Bourne's sultry dance reinvention of Carmen has returned to Sadler's Wells in all its sweaty, grimy glory after a decade off-stage, and its timing couldn't be more apt. The production, which runs from 7 to 29 August 2026, has been awarded a five-star rating by Time Out, which describes it as a 'stone-cold (but very hot) classic'.
A steamy return to Sadler's Wells
Set in the 1950s in the fictional town of Harmony – a midwestern Italian-American community where the residents appear to be permanently horny – The Car Man's plot mashes up Bizet's passionate opera (it uses the Rodion Shchedrin score with additional music by Terry Davies) with the erotic noir The Postman Always Rings Twice. The production first premiered in 2000 and was notable for being the first depiction of bisexuality in a ballet.
The story follows Luca (the formidable Will Bozier), a drifter who arrives in the dusty enclave looking for work. Upon his arrival, Luca causes quite the stir as he effortlessly cartwheels over diner tables and jibes the mechanics with threats of fisticuffs. Oozing raw masculinity, he immediately catches the eye of the wily waitress Lana (Ashley Shaw), as well as the naive dogsbody Angelo (Harry Ondrak-Wright), and a love triangle begins.
Atmospheric design and cinematic flair
While the plot is deliciously melodramatic, it is buoyed by the highly atmospheric set and lighting, designed by Lez Brotherston and Chris Davey, respectively. The steamy mood is enhanced by plenty of literal mist, as plumes of hot air float across the stage almost constantly, rising from the cars of the garage. There's also the grinding of metal, letting off exhilaration sparks around the dancers' feet, and hulking, moving 1950s-style cars. Add copious amounts of fake blood and a splash of full-frontal nudity, and you've got yourself a thrillingly theatrical production.
The cinematic references come in abundance – there are hints of West Side Story, Chicago and Jailhouse Rock. On the noir side of things, the fantastic lighting design relies heavily on red and blue neon lights as well as stark spotlights contrasting shadowy backgrounds. At one point the headlights of a car shine directly out onto the audience, blinding us. It is confronting and decisively uncomfortable.
Flawless performances and standout moments
The performances are flawless. Harry Ondrak-Wright executes a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde-like transformation from sweet hired help to a jaded and institutionalised villain. Danny Reubens is wonderfully greasy as the diner owner and husband of Lana, Dino. In one pivotal scene he slithers along the floor pathetically, his pot belly dragging beneath him. Another standout performance comes from Anna-Maria de Freitas as Rita, whose raw and emotional movement feels utterly truthful.
Packed with Bourne's trademark theatrics, a smattering of humour, and some unforgettable performances, The Car Man is one of the choreographer's best works. Sitting through two hours of this spicy show might leave you feeling a bit overheated, but it will be worth it. Just don't forget to bring a fan.
Practical information
The Car Man is performed at Sadler's Wells, Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4TN. The nearest tube station is Angel. Tickets range from £15 to £125, and the running time is approximately 2 hours. Performances are scheduled daily at 19:30 from Friday, 7 August 2026 through Sunday, 16 August 2026, with further shows until 29 August 2026. For more information and to book tickets, visit the Sadler's Wells website.
