English National Ballet’s new production of Cinderella, My First Ballet, features a narrator to help the young audience follow the story, and a shortened, recorded version of Prokofiev’s ravishing score. My First Ballet - Cinderella is the perfect introduction to ballet, and a fantastic family day out, choreographer George Williamson explains.
Q: Why move away from the ‘traditional’ version of the story?
A: This production of Cinderella reimagines the familiar story as a journey shaped by nature, resilience, and quiet strength – the deeper themes also present in the original fairy tale. By shifting the focus away from the spectacle of transformation alone, this retelling allows Cinderella to drive the story through her own resilience and values. The result is a gentle, hopeful story that invites young audiences into a rich, imaginative world where growth, connection, and kindness unfold through movement, design, and play.
Q: Why is nature so central to the storytelling?
A: Nature provides a visual metaphor that children immediately understand: things grow when cared for, and struggle when neglected. Cinderella’s own connection to the natural world mirrors her kindness and strength. The landscape of fauna and flora around her evolves throughout the story to reflect the character’s journey.
Q: Is romance still a key part of the ballet?
A: Yes, romance is important to this story. However, the Prince doesn’t rescue Cinderella. The main characters fall in love through connection and recognition: the Prince is drawn to Cinderella because of who she is, rather than who she pretends to be following her transformation. The two bond over their shared love of nature, which eventually provides the backdrop for the couple’s own version of ‘happily ever after’.
Q: How is this version relevant to audiences today? What do you hope audiences take away?
A: This retelling of Cinderella touches on the contemporary conversations about the environment in a way that speaks to young audiences. The main character’s journey reflects the importance of empathy, care and patience, as well as the transformative power of kindness. This Cinderella proves that you don’t need to change to be worthy. Additional information – not answered by George Williamson
Q: Why is this ballet performed by artists of English National Ballet School?
A: The My First Ballet series reflects the continued partnership between ENB and ENBS, allowing students to gain on-stage experience prior to graduation and share their love of dance with young audiences. Currently a third of the dancers at English National Ballet are graduates of the School. Company Artists Zai Calliste and Lois Fraiz joined English National Ballet this season, following their performances in lead roles of My First Ballet: Swan Lake last spring.
Q: Why is this production going on tour?
A: English National Ballet is committed to opening up the possibilities of ballet to everyone, everywhere. My First Ballet is a perfect introduction to ballet for children as young as three, providing an exciting and accessible entry point to the artform. This season, this family-friendly series goes on tour to six venues across the country, reflecting the company’s mission to bring world-class ballet to the widest possible audience through performances across the UK.