Northern Ballet brings a touch of magic to Newcastle with Cinderella
Northern Ballet will return to Newcastle Theatre Royal this autumn with Michael Pink's Cinderella, bringing the classic fairy tale to life from Wed 28 – Sat 31 Oct 2026.
Accompanied by a full live orchestra performing Prokofiev's celebrated score, the production combines the classical ballet with Northern Ballet's trademark storytelling to reimagine one of the world's most enduring tales.
Taking place during the October half-term holidays, Cinderella offers the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a magical day out together, introducing younger audiences to the beauty of live ballet and orchestral music.
Originally created for Milwaukee Ballet in 2009, Michael Pink's Cinderella remains true to the familiar story of a young woman dreaming of a better future while introducing fresh perspectives and deeper emotional themes. In this version, Cinderella is guided not by a fairy godmother, but by the spirit of her mother, whose presence helps shape her journey.
Alongside moments of romance and drama, the ballet also embraces humour, particularly through Cinderella's modest home to glittering ballrooms and magical gardens, creating a visually stunning theatrical experience.
Michael Pink has a long-standing association with Northern Ballet, having served as Associate Artistic Director between 1993 and 1998. During that time, he worked closely with former Artistic Director Christopher Gable CBE and created a number of acclaimed productions, including Dracula, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Swan Lake and Giselle. Cinderella marks a welcome return to the company for one of ballet's most celebrated storytellers.
I see the story of Cinderella as one of fundamentally holding on to hope, regardless of circumstance. That in essence is what we want audience members, young and old, to take with them out into the world.
As part of the tour, Northern Ballet will also work with young dancers from across the country, giving them the opportunity to perform alongside the company in the magical transformation scene as Cinderella prepares for the ball.
Northern Ballet's Cinderella plays at Newcastle Theatre Royal from Wed 28 to Fri 31 Oct 2026. Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.
