Cinders FAQs
Breaking with tradition in theatre is a tradition in itself, and this year, Scottish Ballet aims to surprise and delight audiences, as on some nights the lead character of Cinders will be a woman, swept off her feet by her Prince, and on others, Cinders will be a man, swept off his feet by his Princess! Audiences will discover which ‘Cinders’ they will experience on the night when the curtain rises.
Is the production for all the family?
Absolutely – it’s a beautiful fairytale for the festive season that everyone can enjoy!
In performances where Cinders is a man will a male dancer play Cinders, and a female dancer play Cinders as a woman?
Yes, when Cinders is a man he’ll be played by a male dancer. Similarly, in performances where Cinders is a woman, a female dancer will play her.
Will audiences know in advance which gender the Cinders character will be?
No, we think the surprise will add to the fun for everyone! The names of the two dancers playing the leading parts will be posted, but not who is who.
Will the costumes differ?
No – the Princess who sweeps Cinders off his feet will wear the same sensational dress that the female Cinders will wear to the ball in her performances. There will be the same sparkle and glamour in every show!
Will the choreography differ?
Some small sections will, and you might notice some interesting nuances in movement/delivery, which is something we’re enjoying exploring. Look out for content being posted on Scottish Ballet’s social media, interrogating this more.
Will there be an LGBTQ+ pairing?
Not this time around for Cinders, but there is a gay love story blossoming in the background for a couple of the other characters.
Guest Principal Dancer Jessica Fyfe said:
Working with Christopher Hampson on his new Cinders for me personally has been very exhilarating. To give this new fluidity to the leading roles means exploring ways in which the character Cinders, traditionally the ‘poor’ Cinderella, can be a person of grit, determination and strength, which ultimately leads to them creating their own happy ending. I hope the audience enjoys this new twist on a beautiful classic, which now highlights how anyone can have a hand at shaping their own future. It’s not just for fairy tales.
Scottish Ballet Principal Dancer Bruno Micchiardi said:
What I’ve found most interesting about swapping the roles of the Cinders leads is just how different and new it’s made the ballet feel. We all know and love the classic story of Cinderella, but this new version means we’re suddenly working in this amazing upside-down realm, where the male part (previously a more traditionally stoic character) is a complex mixture of vulnerability and resilience, and the female role (usually quite timid and downtrodden for most of the original ballet) is empowered and full of charisma… I’m excited at the prospect of exploring this further and sharing that with the audience!
