Cinders!

We are invited to experience a distinct interpretation of the traditional Cinderella story, built upon the foundation of Sergei Prokofiev’s celebrated score. You will hear the Scottish Ballet Orchestra perform this music live, providing the rhythmic and tonal framework for Christopher Hampson’s choreography. The production is notable for its element of chance, as the central protagonist may be male or female depending on the specific performance you attend. You should listen for the way the orchestration supports the narrative’s shift from domestic grit to the heightened atmosphere of the ballroom. The music remains a constant, providing lush textures and recognizable themes that ground the innovative staging. By focusing on the interaction between the lead characters and the evolving scenery, the choreography highlights the emotional weight of the fairytale. The evening is shaped to emphasize both the romantic nature of the score and the modern adaptability of the choreography, resulting in a performance that balances familiar melodies with unexpected visual storytelling.

Scottish Ballet, the national dance company based in Glasgow, brings this production to the stage. They are recognized for their versatility, maintaining a repertoire that spans significant heritage works and contemporary commissions. For this performance, the company is joined by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, ensuring that the musical accompaniment is an integral, live component of the evening. The ensemble frequently tours major regional theatres, and their dancers are known for a technical precision that supports both classical and modern narrative styles. This collaboration between the resident orchestra and the touring dancers is a hallmark of their larger seasonal productions.

The performance takes place at His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen and has a total running time of approximately 120 minutes. The venue provides a traditional setting for this large-scale production, which is well-suited if you are seeking a full evening of narrative dance. As a wordless performance set to a familiar story, it is an accessible choice if this is your first visit to a ballet. There is no formal dress code required at the theatre. While the central casting changes nightly, the musical and choreographic structure remains consistent for every audience member.