Ballet Ireland Reimagines Cinderella in 1950s New York

Ballet Ireland has unveiled a fresh interpretation of the classic fairy tale, Cinderella, set in the vibrant backdrop of 1950s New York City. Choreographed by Loughlan Prior, this production invites audiences to experience a familiar story through a contemporary lens, departing from traditional elements like fairy godmothers and enchanted carriages.

The narrative follows a young woman named Ellie, captivatingly portrayed by Ashley Tsuyu Burks. Ellie’s journey begins as she bids farewell to her family in Ireland, packing her belongings before embarking on a new life in the bustling city. The transformation of this story is supported by imaginative set design from Elin Steele and atmospheric lighting by Bonnie Beecher, which utilize black-and-white photographs to evoke the era.

As Ellie settles into her new environment, she finds employment at an upscale hotel. The production comes alive with dynamic choreography, depicting the daily routines of hotel staff. Maids bustle about, gathering linens, while bellhops manage drinks and garments with remarkable agility. This energetic display showcases the city’s hustle, offering a stark contrast to the moments of stillness that punctuate the latter part of the performance.

Ellie encounters the charming socialite Alexander Vanderbilt, elegantly danced by Roman Pascoli. Their budding romance adds a touch of tenderness to the storyline, particularly during a lavish ball where Ellie faces competition from two hilariously over-the-top stepsisters, portrayed by Niamh O’Flannagain and Nicola Kilmurry. Their comedic antics provide levity, reinforcing the charm of this retelling.

The second half of the ballet shifts to a more classical style, incorporating traditional ballet techniques interspersed with moments of grace. A standout sequence features four couples waltzing together, creating an atmosphere of elegance before the pivotal moment when the clock strikes midnight. This juxtaposition of frenetic energy and calm allows the audience to absorb the unfolding narrative.

In a whimsical twist, a quirky fairy godmother, danced by Ella Chambers, adds an element of magic to the story. As the search for a missing glittery shoe commences, the production cleverly maintains links to the original tale through themes of social disparity, young love, and serendipitous encounters.

The choreography is complemented by a score that blends Prokofiev‘s classic compositions with additions from sound designer Tom Lane. This musical fusion enhances the overall experience, reminding audiences of the timeless allure of the original narrative, even as it is reimagined.

Cinderella is currently being performed at the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin until November 15, 2025, before continuing its tour to various locations across Ireland. Upcoming performances include stops at the Market Place in Armagh on November 18, Hawk’s Well in Sligo on November 20, and several other venues leading up to mid-December.

This contemporary adaptation of a beloved classic has proven to be a captivating experience, blending nostalgia with innovation, and showcases Ballet Ireland’s commitment to exploring new artistic avenues while honoring the essence of timeless stories.