Enchanting new dance theatre version of Snow White heads to Leeds Playhouse in February

TV star Sarah Parish narrates contemporary take on the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale.

Legendary northern dance company balletLORENT returns to Leeds Playhouse in February with a magical adaptation of a well-loved fairy tale featuring nine local schoolchildren.

The dance theatre version of Snow White (★★★★ The Times & The Guardian) is coming to the Courtyard Theatre at Leeds Playhouse on 20 – 21 February.

Narrated by popular TV star Sarah Parish (W12, Bancroft, Doctor Who), the professional cast will be joined on stage in two key scenes by nine youngsters from Year 3 at Richmond Hill Academy.

The pupils were selected for their enthusiasm and spirit following a workshop at the Clark Lane school led by balletLORENT dancers Gavin Coward and Debbi Purtill.

James MacGillivray, education and projects manager, balletLORENT said: “For many children, taking part in a professional stage production is a unique and transformative experience. It not only builds their confidence and creativity but also enhances their ability to collaborate, communicate, and express themselves in new ways.

“Schools benefit immensely too from our young cast initiative, as these workshops enrich their arts provision and inspire both students and teachers alike.”

An enchanting, centuries old story, Snow White is retold for modern audiences in the distinctive voice of former poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy while retaining all the well-loved elements of the original Brothers Grimm yarn, from a magic mirror to a poisoned apple, a jealous mother and a smitten prince.

Choreographer Liv Lorent, balletLORENT’s artistic director, said: “Snow White offers a rich and visually stunning experience for all ages, blending powerful storytelling with beautiful choreography and original music. We look forward to welcoming audiences to Leeds, whether you’re seeing us for the first time or coming back for more.”

The show is a significant reworking of balletLORENT’s 2015/16 Snow White, which delighted audiences and received glowing reviews. The Newcastle-based company, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2023, last visited Leeds Playhouse in spring of that year with Rapunzel.

One of balletLORENT’s trademarks is its clever use of narration to help audiences of all ages engage with the power of dance. This means that everyone aged 5+ can enjoy this heartfelt story of youth and ageing, betrayal, jealousy and friendship.

The show features an “all ages” cast of 20. balletLORENT regular Caroline Reece, aged 62, plays the wicked queen, alongside the seven- and eight-year-olds from Richmond Hill Academy.

The production marks the stage debut of most of the children, but they won’t be leaving their studies behind to go on the road once the Leeds run ends as balletLORENT are working with a new young cast at each tour venue.

Choreography is by balletLORENT artistic director Liv Lorent, costumes by Lady Gaga and Madonna designer Nasir Mazhar and Libby El-Alfy (Game of Thrones) and music by Doctor Who composer Murray Gold.

Snow White plays at Leeds Playhouse 20 – 21 February. Tickets are available here.