Ballet Shoes Tickets

A Family Classic: Ballet Shoes Tickets at the National Theatre

In a crumbling house filled with fossils and dreams, three adopted sisters embark on a journey of self-discovery in Ballet Shoes, a fresh stage adaptation of Noel Streatfeild's beloved novel. Directed by Katy Rudd (The Ocean at the End of the Lane) and adapted by Kendall Feaver (The Almighty Sometimes), this production explores ambition, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of family.

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.

About Ballet Shoes

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.

The Ballet Shoes Cast and Creative Team

The Fossil family's world will be brought to life by a talented ensemble, led by Pearl Mackie (Doctor Who) as Sylvia. Joining her are Jenny Galloway (Mamma Mia!), Grace Saif (13 Reasons Why), and Daisy Sequerra, among others. This cast is set to embody the humour, warmth, and determination that make Streatfeild's characters so memorable. The production is directed by Katy Rudd, known for her imaginative and visually striking work on The Ocean at the End of the Lane.

Set designer Frankie Bradshaw (recently nominated for an Olivier award for Best Costume Design on Blues for an Alabama Sky) is celebrated for her ability to create intricate, evocative spaces that draw audiences into the world of the story. Costume designer Samuel Wyer (The Grinning Man) has a reputation for capturing period detail with flair, while choreographer Ellen Kane (Matilda the Musical) is widely acclaimed for crafting expressive and dynamic movement on stage.

Composer Asaf Zohar and arranger Gavin Sutherland contribute their musical expertise to create a score that promises to enhance the emotional depth of this story. Together, this creative team ensures that Ballet Shoes will be a production that captures both the beauty and challenges of the Fossil sisters' journey.

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. Her sister illustrated and it was inspired by her former acting career.

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.

In 2007 the novel was adapted for the BBC and starred Emma Watson (Harry Potter, The Perks of Being a Wallflower) and you may also remember it from the film You've Got Mail as Kathleen's 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 today for a night of timeless storytelling.