Cinderella at Octagon Theatre Bolton

Ditch the cinder – this is Ella’s story.

The festive season is fast approaching, and Octagon Theatre Bolton have a showstopper lined up. Cinderella: A Fairytale reimagines the Brothers Grimm classic as a high-energy musical, driven by Benji Bower’s original score. This is a Cinderella about dreams, about flight, about dreams, and of course, about glittery shoes. 

It’s Ella and her loving father against the world. That is, until he remarries. Shunned by her new family members, Ella finds solace in the woods amongst the birds and the wildlife. And a mysterious, bird-loving young man. 

Then, after an invitation to the Royal Ball, Ella’s life changes forever. 

Director Sarah Punshon’s stylish production glitters with magic and music, catapulting this timeless story into something unmistakably modern. Punshon said: ‘I’m thrilled we’re getting to work with Benji Bower’s original music, which he is specially rewriting and recording for us. This version of Cinderella is so funny, heartfelt, and magical, I know audiences are going to love it.’

Punshon also mentions her ‘fabulous cast’, which is no exaggeration. Stepping into the princess’ shoes is Eve Pereira. No stranger to the Octagon, Pereira previously appeared in Pride and Prejudice. Her other notable credits: Robin Hood at The Dukes and The Snow Queen at The Albany.

A festive show to inspire both children and adults alike, Cinderella: A Fairytale explodes with feel-good factor. Roddy Gauld, Chief Executive of the Octagon, says: ‘We know that our festive show is a yearly highlight for so many families across Bolton and beyond, so it is incredibly important to us that we create theatre that entertains and inspires our audiences. We’re delighted to be working with such a brilliant creative team to make a Cinderella that has Bolton themes at its heart, while still whisking us away to a place filled with magic.’ 

No need to wait for a Prince Charming to whisk you away. This year, Bolton Octagon’s got us covered.