London Children’s Ballet Brings ‘Ella’s Big Chance: A Jazz-Age Cinderella’ to the West End

London Children’s Ballet returns to The Peacock Theatre this year for another memorable season.

From 3 to 6 July, London Children’s Ballet (LCB) will present its production of Ella’s Big Chance: A Jazz-Age Cinderella which is based on an original story by Shirley Hughes.

Rehearsals are currently underway at the London Children’s Ballet studios, located in Battersea. The facility features two studios equipped with a Harlequin Activity sprung floor and Harlequin Cascade performance vinyl floor.

Ruth Brill, Artistic Director, is working with choreographer, Kristen McNally and composer, Ian Stephens, to bring Shirley Hughes’ story to the West End stage. 

LCB dancers rehearse every Sunday, with additional intensive sessions during the Easter holidays and Summer half term. In total, they receive over 100 hours of free, specialist ballet training to prepare them for the performances in July.

Kristen McNally said: “The children have really loved the rehearsals so far, and they’re amazing at offering up suggestions and ideas which has really made me smile. It just feels like such a luxury at LCB to have these amazing floors to train on too, as they help you feel grounded and allow you to work at your best.”

The costume and set design by Carrie-Ann Stein takes inspiration from Shirley Hughes’ original illustrations. 

The production of Ella’s Big Chance: A Jazz-Age Cinderella will premiere on 3 July at The Peacock Theatre, with additional performances over the following three days. For ticket information, head to LCB’s website.