This is like a love letter to the stage
Before Dancemoms there was Ballet Shoes, Noel Streatfeild’s (much more) charming 1936 children’s novel, following the lives of three young, adopted sisters as they navigate growing up in stage school and scraping together a living as theatre performers. Returning to the National Theatre as a live production, this moving story excels on every level, writes Melina Block.
Ballet prodigy Posy (Scarlett Monahan), mechanics enthusiast Petrova (Sienna Arif-Knights), and eldest actress Pauline (Nina Cassells) successfully overcome my usual apprehension towards adults playing children, bringing such energy and heart to their roles as the Fossil sisters that you can’t help but root for them – even through the occasional diva meltdown. Justin Salinger is also spectacular, enthralling the audience every time he appears in one of the many eccentric roles he takes on throughout the show; whether he’s the kooky geologist who takes the girls in or their velvet-and-fur-clad Russian ballet teacher, Salinger’s charisma and stage presence is irresistible.
The intricately crafted details of the sets, costumes and lights provide even more warmth and magic. Every corner of this production appears thoughtfully conceived, expertly constructed, and confidently displayed. This technical proficiency extends to the cast’s dancing as well, creating a show that really does feel like a love letter to the stage.
From the first scene to the last, the world of Ballet Shoes is a nostalgic, comforting escape. As we were leaving the theatre, my friend (half) jokingly said that she wished she had a child just so she could take them to see this show: if that isn’t a good enough incentive to grab tickets for Ballet Shoes, I don’t know what is.
National Theatre until 21st February.
Booking and full details: https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/ballet-shoes/
