Scottish Ballet’s Cinders returns to Newcastle Theatre Royal this week with a new name, new designs, and a charming twist to the classic tale.
In a world first, the Scottish Ballet’s new production of Cinders will have a surprising twist in store audiences.
From the world-renowned Ballet, some nights will see Cinders as a woman, swept off her feet by her Prince, and on others, Cinders will be a man, swept off his feet by his Princess.
Audiences will only discover which Cinders they will experience when the curtain rises, and the performance begins allowing theatre goers to explore new avenues of art and performance.
Scottish Ballet Principal Dancer Bruno Michiardi said: “What I’ve found most interesting about swapping the roles of the Cinders lead dancers is just how different and new it’s made the ballet feel.
“We all know and love the classic story of Cinderella, but this new version means we’re suddenly working in this amazing upside-down realm, where the male part (previously a more traditionally stoic character) is a complex mixture of vulnerability and resilience, and the female role (usually quite timid and downtrodden for most of the original ballet) is empowered and full of charisma.
“I’m excited at the prospect of exploring this further and sharing that with the audience!”
From Matthew Bourne’s all-male Swan Lake to next year’s West End production of The Picture of Dorian Gray which will be performed by Sarah Snook, breaking tradition in theatre is fast becoming a tradition within itself.
Set at the turn of the 20th century in Cinders’ family-run emporium, life is sweet until tragedy strikes, leaving Cinders an orphan.
The production of Scottish Ballet’s Cinders which is set in a draper’s store, will feature a brand-new, art-nouveau inspired set with exquisite details, and sparkling costume designs.
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Choreographer, Christopher Hampson (Scottish Ballet Artistic Director/CEO) is “delighted to be bringing this fresh approach to such a well-known fairytale,” and designed by Elin Steele, with Prokofiev’s irresistibly rich score performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, Cinders will embody the enchanted fairytale, explored in new and artistic ways.
Guest Principal Dancer Jessica Fyfe said: “Working with Christopher Hampson on his new Cinders for me personally has been very exhilarating.
“To give this new fluidity to the leading roles means exploring ways in which the character Cinders, traditionally the ‘poor’ Cinderella, can be a person of grit, determination and strength, which ultimately leads to them creating their own happy ending.
“I hope the audience enjoys this new twist on a beautiful classic, which now highlights how anyone can have a hand at shaping their own future. It’s not just for fairy-tales,” she adds.
Cinders is at Newcastle Theatre Royal Wednesday, February 7 until Saturday, February 10, 2024.
Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.
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