Snow White – Leeds Playhouse

Director & Choreographer: Liv Lorent

Scenario Writer: Carol Ann Duffy

balletLORENT, North East England’s leading female-led Dance Theatre company, continues to set a benchmark for ambitious and inclusive performance with its evocative reimagining of Snow White. With a steadfast mission to create world-class, distinctive dance for diverse family and adult audiences – regardless of age, experience, culture or background – the company remains resolute in refusing elitism or mystification in the arts. Their performances are designed not only to entertain but also to foster a sense of warmth and belonging where all are invited to find joy and connection.

The enduring strength behind balletLORENT’s three-decade legacy is driven by Artistic Director Liv Lorent (MBE), whose commitment to innovation and broadening access underpins every production. Lorent’s passion ensures that both professional artists and the communities they engage with are offered meaningful opportunities within the arts landscape. The company’s work is unmistakably crafted from a female perspective, imbuing their storytelling with feminist sensibility while maintaining universal appeal.

Founded in 1993 by Lorent herself, balletLORENT has garnered national and international acclaim for its unique productions featuring performers ranging widely in age (22–58) and experience. In this interpretation of Snow White, created in collaboration with celebrated poet Carol Ann Duffy, the familiar fairytale is given new depth. The narrative commences with the death of the King, leaving his vain Queen consort solely responsible for ruling the kingdom and raising her daughter. As Snow White matures into beauty rivalled only by her mother’s vanity, familial tensions reach their peak when a new suitor shifts his affections from Queen to daughter. The ensuing jealousy leads to an attempted murder orchestrated by the Queen; however, compassion prevails as the huntsman spares Snow White’s life.

While each cast member delivers measured performances that serve the narrative faithfully, rather than seeking individual spotlight, the true star of this production is Phil Eddolls’ ingenious set design: simple yet profoundly effective in evoking atmosphere.

It must be noted that despite an official age guidance of 5+, this production delves into mature themes more suitable for audiences aged 12+. Scenes such as the huntsman stabbing a doe (portrayed by a child), the Queen consuming what she believes is her daughter’s heart, macabre dances involving Snow White’s lifeless body, and an unsettling mirror reminiscent of American Horror Store tropes may prove too intense for younger viewers.

In a pioneering approach to the classic tale of Snow White, the production has partnered with Richmond Hill Academy, a local school, to recruit children for the cast – specifically those who might not ordinarily have access to such opportunities. This initiative not only provides invaluable stage experience for young people from varied backgrounds, but also fosters a sense of inclusion and empowerment within the community. This casting approach also serves as a bridge to diverse audiences who may not be familiar with dance or theatre. Through these efforts, Snow White becomes more than just a performance; it is an inclusive celebration that champions equal opportunity and introduces dance theatre to audiences from all walks of life.

Ultimately, balletLORENT’s Snow White stands as testament both to creative innovation within dance theatre and to their unwavering dedication towards inclusivity – a performance that challenges expectations while remaining rooted in accessibility and communal experience.

Runs until 21st February 2026