Fairytale returns with more sparkle

You've probably seen countless renditions of Cinderella - but the Royal New Zealand Ballet's upcoming production of the fairytale is tipped to top them all.

The RNZB - and more than 100,000 Swarovski crystals - will bring the fairytale to life.

The ballet performed Cinderella in New Zealand and China in 2007, making it one of the most popular shows in the RNZB's history - and now it's back.

Renowned British choreographer Christopher Hampson's has breathed new life into the timeless rags-to-riches romance, which will tour seven centres throughout the country from August 2 to September 9.

"As one of the most loved fairytales, Cinderella has been enchanting audiences of all ages around the world for many years," RNZB artistic director Ethan Stiefel said.

"Our rendition of the story lifts the magic from the page and embraces the belief that dreams can come true, whilst elegantly showing off the dancers' talent and versatility."

London-based choreographer Hampson has created five ballets for the company.

"The story is classic... the cruel stepmother, the comedic stepsisters, a handsome Prince and a magical Fairy Godmother.  But composer Sergei Prokofiev has given us more than this.  For me his score shows growth, honesty, humility and love.  It is a tale that shows us a journey from dark to light," Hampson says.

Costume designer Tracy Grant Lord has had more than 100,000 Swarovski crystals woven into her designs, including Cinderella's tutu and the cloak that she wears to the ball and in insect costumes and wings, the stepmother's negligee and the spider's web.

The TOWER Season of Cinderella

Wellington
Thurs 2 – Sun 5 & Wed  8 – Sat 11 August
St James Theatre
Featuring Vector Wellington Orchestra

Invercargill
Tues 14 & Wed 15 August
Civic Theatre

Dunedin
Sat 18 & Sun 19 March
Regent Theatre

Napier
Thurs 23 – Sat 25 August
Municipal Theatre

Palmerston North
Tues 28 & Wed 29 August
Regent on Broadway

Takapuna
Sat  1 & Sun  2 September
Bruce Mason Centre

Auckland
Wed 5  -  Sun 9 September
ASB Theatre
Featuring Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra

More information: http://nzballet.org.nz/cinderella

- © Fairfax NZ News