Ballet Shoes Tickets

Ballet Shoes in London

Following a critically acclaimed run for Christmas 2024, this charming adaptation of Ballet Shoes, Noel Streatfeild's beloved novel, returns to the National Theatre’s Olivier stage, close to Waterloo and the River Thames. In a crumbling house filled with fossils and dreams, three adopted sisters embark on a journey of self-discovery. This moving play delighted audiences last Christmas and returns for a strictly limited run, so don’t miss this “spirited, spiky and spectacular” (The Guardian) show - book today!

About Ballet Shoes

Set in 1930s London, Ballet Shoes captures the struggles and triumphs of Pauline, Petrova, and Posy Fossil as they defy expectations to pursue their dreams. Whether it's the thrill of acting, the allure of ballet, or the challenge of engineering, each sister's passion weaves a tale of courage and determination that will inspire audiences young and old.

At the heart of Ballet Shoes is the Fossil family, an unconventional household overflowing with creativity, fossils, and eccentric lodgers. Guided by their guardian Sylvia and the formidable Nana, Pauline, Petrova, and Posy strive to carve out their places in the world. Pauline is drawn to the glamour of the stage, Petrova dreams of planes and engines, and Posy's calling is to dance.

But as financial struggles loom and societal expectations threaten to hold them back, the sisters must lean on each other and their chosen family to find their way. Balancing ambition with responsibility, their story is both uplifting and deeply relatable - a celebration of individuality, perseverance, and the ties that bind us. This adaptation honours the novel's original 1930s setting, immersing audiences in the challenges and opportunities of the era while remaining timeless in its themes, exploring ambition, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of family.

The Ballet Shoes Creative Team

Ballet Shoes is directed by Stage Debut Award winner Katy Rudd (The Ocean at the End of the Lane) and adapted by Bruntwood Prize-winning playwright Kendall Feaver (The Almighty Sometimes).

Set design is by Frankie Bradshaw (recently nominated for an Olivier award for Best Costume Design on Blues for an Alabama Sky), with costume design by Samuel Wyer (The Grinning Man) and choreography by Ellen Kane (Matilda the Musical). The music for Ballet Shoes is composed by Asaf Zohar (God of Carnage) and arranged by Gavin Sutherland, current Principal Guest Conductor of the English National Ballet.

Ballet Shoes Cast

Main cast:

• Petrova Fossil - Sienna Arif-Knights
• Pauline Fossil - Nina Cassells
• Posy Fossil - Scarlett  Monahan
• Jai Saran - Raj Bajaj
• Dr Jakes - Pandora Colin
• Theo Dane - Nadine Higgin
• Justin Salinger - GUM / Fidolia

The History of Ballet Shoes

First published in 1936, Ballet Shoes became an instant classic, celebrated for its progressive depiction of young women defying societal norms. Noel Streatfeild's story was ground-breaking in its portrayal of girls pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated fields like aviation, alongside the artistic glamour of acting and ballet. Streatfield’s sister, Ruth Gervis, illustrated the novel.

The novel has since inspired generations and been adapted for stage and screen, cementing its place in literary and theatrical history. This production is a landmark moment, introducing the Fossil sisters' tale to a new generation of audiences while staying true to its enduring themes.

It has been adapted twice for the screen, both by the BBC: a 1975 adaptation and an adaptation in 2007 which starred Emma Watson (Harry Potter, The Perks of Being a Wallflower). You may also remember Ballet Shoes from the film You've Got Mail as Kathleen’s (played by Meg Ryan) favourite book!

Book Ballet Shoes Tickets at the National Theatre Today

Celebrate the magic of ambition and sisterhood with Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre. This inspiring production is perfect for families, theatre lovers, and fans of the original book. Don't miss the chance to experience the Fossil sisters as they dream, struggle, and soar. Book your tickets for this “exquisite Christmas cracker” (The Guardian) today!