Cinderella

For this production, you will experience Sergei Prokofiev’s celebrated score, which provides a vivid, cinematic backdrop to the familiar fairy tale. The choreography by Michael Pink shifts away from traditional pantomime styles, focusing instead on a more sophisticated narrative approach. You should listen for the mechanical, ticking percussion in the famous midnight sequence, which creates a palpable sense of tension as the story reaches its pivotal moment. The music moves between lush, romantic melodies and sharp, angular passages that reflect the difficult circumstances of the central character. Throughout the two acts, the evening is shaped by a gritty yet magical atmosphere, blending realistic emotional stakes with the supernatural elements of the fable. We recommend paying attention to how the orchestral textures change as the setting moves from the domestic grit of the early scenes to the opulence of the ballroom, offering a substantial and dramatic experience of narrative dance.

Northern Ballet is a prominent touring company based in Leeds, widely recognised for their focus on storytelling and dramatic characterisation. They are known for bringing narrative works to life through a blend of classical technique and contemporary theatricality. In this performance, Daryl Griffith conducts the orchestra, providing the musical foundation for the dancers. The company regularly performs at their home venue, Leeds Grand Theatre, where they have built a reputation for producing large-scale works that prioritise emotional depth and clear, engaging plotlines for a wide range of audiences.

This performance takes place at the Leeds Grand Theatre and has a total running time of approximately two hours and forty minutes. Given this duration, it is a significant evening of theatre that allows for a full immersion in the story. The production is well-suited if you appreciate structured narrative dance rather than abstract movement. There is no specific dress code for this venue, though many patrons choose smart-casual attire. With tickets starting at ten pounds, it offers an accessible entry point for those new to ballet or those visiting the city's historic theatre for the first time.