Ballet based on the life of Anne Lister, “the first modern lesbian”, to open in Leeds in 2026

Northern Ballet is to produce a new ballet based on the life of Anne Lister, “the first modern lesbian”, which will open in Leeds in 2026.

Lister, who inspired the BBC TV show Gentleman Jack, was born in 1791. Her diaries detailed life at Shibden Hall near Halifax, and shared intimate details of her same-sex relationships.

Sally Wainwright, who wrote Gentleman Jack, will be creative consultant on the project. She said: “It’s so exciting to see Anne Lister’s influence and legacy continue to expand.

“What a thrilling opportunity to present Anne Lister to the world in a brand-new way.”

Northern Ballet’s artistic director, Federico Bonelli, added: “As an organisation our aim is to break down barriers to world class ballet for larger and more diverse audiences.

“The story of someone many call the first modern lesbian is a perspective we rarely see represented through ballet, and with her connection to our home in Yorkshire it feels like a perfect fit.”

After opening in Leeds, the ballet Gentleman Jack will be performed in Sheffield, Nottingham, Salford, London and Norwich.

In April 2028 it will be presented at the Finnish National Opera and Ballet in Helsinki.