REVIEW - BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET'S CINDERELLA | THE LOWRY | 06/03/2025

Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Cinderella, choreographed by Sir David Bintley, has been a beloved part of the company’s repertoire for years. With breathtaking designs by John Macfarlane and Sergei Prokofiev’s sweeping score performed live by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, it promises a visually and musically rich interpretation of the classic fairytale. The production continues to captivate audiences both in the UK and internationally, proving its lasting appeal.

The timeless tale of Cinderella follows a young woman mistreated by her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, only to have her fate changed by the intervention of a magical fairy godmother. Transformed for one evening into an elegant guest at the royal ball, she captures the heart of a prince before vanishing at midnight, leaving behind only a single glass slipper. With love and perseverance, the Prince searches for his mysterious dance partner, leading to the joyous conclusion where Cinderella’s kindness and resilience are rewarded.

John Macfarlane’s designs bring a sumptuous, almost dreamlike quality to the production, from the drab yet evocative kitchen where Cinderella toils to the glittering magnificence of the royal ballroom. The transformation scene is pure theatrical magic, making Cinderella’s journey feel like a fairytale come to life. David Finn’s lighting design enhances the mood perfectly, shifting seamlessly between the gloom of Cinderella’s home and the dazzling warmth of the ball.

Sergei Prokofiev’s score is brought to life by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia under the baton of Paul Murphy. The music moves between haunting melancholy and grand, sweeping waltzes, creating an immersive atmosphere that complements the movement on stage. The costumes are as elegant as expected, with Cinderella’s ball gown standing out as an exquisite centrepiece.

Sir David Bintley’s choreography strikes a balance between classical ballet and engaging character work. Cinderella’s solos are beautifully expressive, conveying both her hardship and eventual joy. The ensemble dances, particularly in the ballroom scene, are intricate and full of energy, with the Prince’s friends and courtiers adding layers of movement that make the production feel dynamic. The comedic moments, particularly involving the stepsisters, inject levity into the performance without overshadowing its elegance. The physical comedy is well-placed, keeping the audience engaged and entertained.

Beatrice Parma shines in the title role, delivering a performance that is both technically assured and emotionally resonant. Her Cinderella is graceful and expressive, making her transformation all the more captivating. Enrique Bejarano Vidal as the Prince brings charm and athleticism to his role, with impressive lifts and precise footwork. The Stepsisters, played by Eilis Small and Olivia Chang Clarke, steal several scenes with their over-the-top antics and comedic timing. Daria Stanciulescu’s Stepmother is suitably commanding, adding a touch of villainy without veering into caricature.

The Fairy Godmother, danced by Isabella Howard, adds an ethereal quality to the performance, while the seasonal fairies—Spring (Reina Fuchigami), Summer (Céline Gittens), Autumn (Amelia Thompson), and Winter (Rachele Pizzillo)—each bring a unique energy to their respective solos. The entire company is well-rehearsed, with the corps de ballet providing a strong foundation for the production’s grand set pieces.

Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Cinderella is a visually stunning and beautifully performed production that brings the classic fairytale to life with elegance and charm. The combination of exquisite set design, enchanting music, and impressive dancing makes for a thoroughly enjoyable evening at the theatre. While it may not break new ground in its storytelling, the sheer quality of the production ensures it remains a standout interpretation of the beloved tale. A four-star performance that proves why BRB continues to be one of the leading ballet companies in the world.

Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Cinderella is at The Lowry until Saturday 8th March 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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If you would like more information about the show, please click the button below to visit the show's official website.

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Photo Credit - Johan Persson

*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.