Based on the well-loved novel by Noel Streatfeild, Ballet Shoes is the heartwarming story of three orphans who, in twists of fate, find themselves as sisters with the unlikely but chosen surname of “Fossil”. Pauline, Petrova and Posy make a vow to put their name in the history books and make a living to support their unconventional but loving family.
Before we meet the Fossils, we are told of Sylvia (Pearl Mackie), who finds herself orphaned and taken to live with her only living relative, Great Uncle Matthew (Philip Labey), or more affectionately known as “GUM”. GUM is a collector of fossils and a devoted geologist, who adventures around the world looking for the next gem. The three treasures he happens to bring home are the three orphan sisters, much to the dismay of Sylvia’s Nana (Jenny Galloway), which is where our story begins.
We are introduced to these characters in a musical sequence, the years moving past us to where the tale takes place. The girls’ origin stories are skilfully relayed to us, the movement of the ensemble and the chosen props creating a magical opening. The transitions are seamless, thanks to the talented ensemble, with creative ideas being used such as the clothes rail in the opening of Act 2 forming a curtain to highlight the girls’ many roles. The performance of Alice In Wonderland is a strong feature, the costumes and performances on stage full of colour and enthusiasm.
Our three protagonists, Pauline (Grace Saif), Petrova (Yanexi Enriquez) and Posy (Daisy Sequerra) have excellent chemistry and embody their parts beautifully. Saif, in particular, feels natural and comfortable with the role, and this interpretation allows Petrova’s character to shine. A memorable moment in the performance is when the cast are performing a futuristic version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Apart from the fact that this entire scene is comical genius, with the outlandish costumes juxtaposed with Shakespeare and the ‘professional’ actors being terrified to fly, the moment when Petrova soars across the audience declaring her iconic line “And I” is breath-taking.
Mackie embodies the lovable Garnie well, effortlessly balancing her character’s motherly instinct with her desire for adventure. Garnie’s relationship with Nana is heartfelt and real and the dynamic between these parental figures and the children is palpable. The love interest for Sylvia in this adaptation is Jai Saran (Sid Sagar), an avid motor car owner, who forms a heartwarming friendship with Petrova. Mackie and Sagar’s performances are innocent and heartfelt, their subtle romance creating depth to the story. While Doctor Smith does not appear in the flesh in this version, her partner Doctor Jakes (Stacy Abalogun) is prominent. Her solo character fits into the unusual family well and her moments directing Pauline with her acting are charming. Eccentric Theo Dane (Nadine Higgin) dances her way into this family, Higgin’s passionate portrayal leaping into the audience. While Winifred (Sonya Cullingford) is often portrayed as insufferable, Cullingford exudes talent and manages to humanise her and make her a vital part of this show.
The set is groundbreaking in this production, the walls filled high with fossils and paintings to represent the enormous house at 999 Cromwell Road. Adding to the set are the magnificent props, which are used expertly to create the different scenes on stage – from number 999 to the performing arts school to the theatre where the girls perform. Particularly impressive is the stunning projection work which can often be used excessively in productions. Most memorable is when Madame Fidolia’s health deteriorates, and she watches her younger self dancing beautifully on stage. Her backstory is expertly executed and the contrast between her younger self as a dancer (Xolisweh Ana Richard is a striking performer) and her elder self is perfectly in unison on stage.
A modern-day twist on the charming and heartwarming story of those who choose their own family, with simple and enchanting comedy and kind-hearted characters, Ballet Shoes is a show that the whole family will enjoy, leaving you feeling grateful and excited for the next adventure.
Ballet Shoes is currently showing at the National Theatre until 22nd February 2025 with more information and tickets to be found at: https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/ballet-shoes/
Reviewer: Maani Way
Reviewed: 19th December 2024
North West End UK Rating: