Cinders!

We are presented with a production of Christopher Hampson’s choreography, set to the familiar and evocative score by Sergei Prokofiev. The performance revolves around a classic fairy tale, though the central romantic role is subject to a gender-switching element that varies between shows, providing a fresh perspective on the narrative's dynamics. You will hear the Scottish Ballet Orchestra performing the music live, which adds a layer of depth and immediate physical resonance to the dance. As the evening progresses, you should listen for how the woodwind and string sections mirror the shifting emotional states of the characters. The work is designed to balance traditional elegance with a modern sense of play, ensuring that the storytelling remains accessible while exploring the different romantic journeys dictated by the casting of the leads. The atmosphere is shaped by the contrast between the rhythmic vitality of the ball scenes and the more lyrical, intimate passages.

Scottish Ballet brings this production to life alongside the Scottish Ballet Orchestra. As Scotland’s national dance company, they are known for a repertoire that spans bold new commissions and revitalised classics, often touring across the United Kingdom and internationally. The ensemble is recognised for technical precision and a strong narrative focus in their staged works. By performing with their own dedicated orchestra, they ensure a close integration between the symphonic music and the movement on stage, a hallmark of their major winter productions.

This performance takes place at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow and has a total running time of approximately 120 minutes. The duration and the familiar source material make it a suitable choice for those who are new to ballet or for seasoned attendees looking for a standard-length evening of dance. There is no specific dress code for this venue. As a non-verbal performance set to live music, the story is conveyed entirely through movement and the orchestral score, so no surtitles are required.