Cinderella

We are presented here with Michael Pink’s distinct interpretation of a familiar story, set to the expansive and rhythmically driven score by Sergei Prokofiev. The choreography avoids traditional sweetness in favour of a more grounded, dramatic narrative that leans into the emotional complexities of the central characters. As you listen, you will hear how Prokofiev uses specific instrumental motifs to represent the clock’s relentless ticking and the shifting moods of the protagonist. The evening is structured to build a sense of atmospheric tension, moving from the domestic confines of the opening scenes to the broader, more surreal textures of the ballroom. You should listen for the way the woodwinds and brass sections punctuate the more urgent moments of the score, providing a cinematic quality that helps to drive the physical storytelling on stage. Rather than a series of disconnected dances, the performance unfolds as a continuous dramatic arc where the music and movement are inextricably linked, focusing on the human weight behind the magic.

Northern Ballet brings this production to their home city, continuing their long-standing reputation for narrative-driven dance that prioritises character and drama. Based in Leeds, the company is recognised for its touring schedule across the United Kingdom and its commitment to making ballet accessible to a wide audience. Daryl Griffith conducts the orchestra, bringing his experience in managing the precise tempos required for Prokofiev’s complex score. The ensemble is well-known for its ability to blend classical technique with a contemporary theatrical sensibility, ensuring that the storytelling remains clear and impactful throughout the performance.

The performance takes place at the Leeds Grand Theatre and lasts approximately two hours and forty minutes. Given the substantial duration and the dramatic nature of the choreography, this is a significant evening of theatre that may appeal to those who enjoy a full-scale narrative production. The venue is a historic setting for such a large-scale ballet. There is no specific dress code mentioned, and the evening is suitable for both regular attendees and those who are new to the company’s work. The production is performed in Leeds, the home ground for this ensemble.