Cinderella: A Fairytale Returns to Bristol Stage

Hit show made in Bristol returns to the city for Christmas

How has it been been 15 years since the original Cinderella: A Fairytale opened at Tobacco Factory Theatres?

It was the theatre’s Christmas show for the 2011/12 season. Its outstanding storytelling was an instant hit with Bristol audiences. So popular was it that it headed to St James theatre in London for Christmas 2012.

The production went on to be shortlisted for an Olivier Award for Best Family Show in 2013.

As well as being staged by theatre companies across the country in the interim years, it returned to Tobacco Factory Theatres for Christmas 2016.

So it’s really marvelous news to hear that Bristol Old Vic has chosen it for its Christmas production 2026.

The show was devised by Sally Cookson and Adam Peck through a co-production between Tobacco Factory Theatres and Travelling Light Theatre Company.

“Fifteen years on from when we originally created Cinderella: A Fairytale, based on the Grimm brothers’ tale, I am thrilled to see it come home to Bristol in this brand-new production,” Adam Peck says.

The new production will be directed by Bristol Old Vic’s Literary & Directors Associate, Lisa Gregan

The story follows the free-spirited Ella following the death of her mother. She seeks solace in the woods surrounding her and her father’s home, enchanted by the birds that roost peacefully in the trees. When her father remarries, Ella’s feathered friends begin to feel like her only true family, until a mysterious boy (who shares her love of birdwatching) stumbles upon her woodland hideout, a boy who shares her love of birdwatching. And he has in his hand an invitation to the Royal Ball…

Original director Sally Cookson said: “We have been lucky enough to see several different productions performed throughout the UK since its conception, but it feels especially poignant to have it produced back in Bristol where it all began.

“It is quite lovely to hand the baton on to Lisa and her team at Bristol Old Vic to bring new life to our adaptation. Lisa is not only a cherished friend but also a director with a powerful imagination and one who truly understands the importance of collaboration and ensemble –  I can’t wait to see what she cooks up!”

Cinderella: A Fairytale will be at Bristol Old Vic 27 November 2026 – 02 January 2027

The show is currently on sale to members with general booking opening Thursday 12 Feb at 10am.

For more information or to book, visit: https://bristololdvic.org.uk/whats-on/cinderella-a-fairytale

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