Young local dancers to share the stage with Northern Ballet in Cinderella at Newcastle Theatre Royal

Young dancers from Youth Ballet North’s Advanced Training Programme are set to experience the opportunity of a lifetime this autumn as they take to the stage alongside Northern Ballet in Michael Pink’s acclaimed production of Cinderella at Newcastle Theatre Royal (Wed 28 – Sat 31 Oct 2026).

As part of a special collaboration facilitated by Newcastle Theatre Royal and Northern Ballet, local children have been invited to join the professional cast in three key roles: a dressmaker, a cobbler, and a gardener. The young performers will appear during the production’s magical transformation scene, helping to bring Cinderella’s enchanting journey to life as she prepares to attend the ball.

The partnership between Northern Ballet, Youth Ballet North and Newcastle Theatre Royal offers aspiring young dancers a unique insight into life on a professional stage while inspiring the next generation of performing arts talent in the North East.

For all of the children involved, it will be their first experience performing on the Theatre Royal stage as part of a large-scale professional production, providing invaluable experience and memories that will last a lifetime.

As the North East’s only pre-vocational ballet training organisation, Youth Ballet North provides young dancers with professional-level training and performance opportunities, helping to develop the region’s future dance talent.

Amy Turner-Daly, Director of Youth Ballet North, said: “Opportunities like this are incredibly valuable for young dancers. Performing alongside a company as respected as Northern Ballet gives our students the chance to learn from a world-class dance company, experience performing on a large-scale stage and see where their dedication and passion could lead.

“As a former dancer with Northern Ballet, this collaboration is particularly special to me. Having experienced first-hand the exceptional standards, creativity and opportunities the company offers, it is incredibly rewarding to see our students following in those footsteps and sharing the stage with such an inspiring organisation.

“This is a hugely exciting opportunity for our students. Not only will it create unforgettable memories for them, but it also highlights the strength of young talent in the North East and the importance of partnerships between training organisations, theatres and professional companies.”

Kim Hoffman, Director of Creative Development at Newcastle Theatre Royal, said: “At Newcastle Theatre Royal, we’re passionate about creating opportunities that inspire young people and nurture future talent. Giving Youth Ballet North students the chance to perform alongside Northern Ballet in Cinderella is a wonderful example of how world-class productions can create meaningful opportunities for local young people.

“We’re proud to play a role in supporting the development of emerging talent and helping young dancers experience the thrill of performing on our stage alongside professional artists. We hope this collaboration inspires the next generation and demonstrates the power of the arts to transform lives.”

Northern Ballet’s Cinderella promises an enchanting retelling of the beloved fairy tale, complete with exquisite choreography, stunning costumes and a beautiful score. Audiences will also have the chance to see the young local performers during the spectacular transformation scene, adding an extra touch of magic to this much-loved production.

Northern Ballet’s Cinderella plays at Newcastle Theatre Royal Wed 28 to Fri 31 Oct 2026. Tickets are available here.