Magical dance version of Snow White coming to Leeds
balletLORENT show calls in at Leeds Playhouse on mini tour
A legendary northern dance company will return to Leeds in February with a magical adaptation of a well-loved fairy tale.
balletLORENT's dance theatre version of Snow White (awarded four-stars by both The Times and the Guardian) is coming to Leeds Playhouse for two performances on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 February 2026.
An enchanting and centuries old story, Snow White is retold for modern audiences in the distinctive voice of former poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy. However, it still retains all the well-loved elements of the original Brothers Grimm yarn, from a magic mirror to a poisoned apple, a jealous mother and a smitten prince.
One of balletLORENT's trademarks is the clever use of narration to help audiences of all ages engage with the power of dance. And so audiences aged 5+ can enjoy this heartfelt story of youth and ageing, betrayal, jealousy and friendship.
The show features an 'all ages' cast of 20. Whilst balletLORENT regular Caroline Reece, aged 62, plays the wicked queen, a 10-strong fresh young community cast from Richmond Hill Academy, appear in two scenes. All are aged seven or eight.
Though most will be making their stage debut at the Playhouse, the pupils will not be leaving their studies behind to go on the road. balletLORENT will find and work with a new young cast in each location.
Choreography is by balletLORENT artistic director Liv Lorent, costumes by Lady Gaga and Madonna designer Nasir Mazhar and Libby El-Alfy (Game of Thrones) and music by Dr Who composer Murray Gold.
The show is a significant reworking of balletLORENT's 2015/16 Snow White, which delighted audiences and received glowing reviews.
Newcastle-based balletLORENT celebrated their 30th anniversary in 2023. The company's last visit to Leeds Playhouse was in spring of that year with Rapunzel.
Liv Lorent said: "Snow White offers a rich and visually stunning experience for all ages, blending powerful storytelling with beautiful choreography and original music.
"We look forward to welcoming audiences to Leeds, whether you’re seeing us for the first time or coming back for more."
balletLORENT's Snow White, on Friday 20 (6pm) and Saturday 21 February (1.30pm) 2026, Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds LS2 7UP. Tickets from £16.50, phone 0113 213 7700 or https://www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk/event/snow-white/