balletLORENT’s Hansel & Gretel and the Witch to tour in 2027

Following its Newcastle premiere, balletLORENT’s enchanting dance theatre reimagining of the classic fairytale, written by former Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy and narrated by Gina McKee, tours to Leeds, Durham, London, Doncaster and Darlington.

Step into a world of enchantment, mischief and unexpected magic as balletLORENT brings Hansel & Gretel and the Witch to the stage. A fresh and imaginative take on the much-loved fairytale, this captivating dance theatre production weaves together striking visual storytelling, evocative movement and words by former Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy to create a spellbinding experience for the whole family.

With a surprising new ending, the production invites audiences of all ages into a world where the familiar takes an unexpected turn. An alluring sugar-glass house hides deep in the woods, an “all you can eat” merry-go-round brims with hand-crocheted treats, a regenerating witch keeps audiences guessing, and two giant chickens add a wonderfully unexpected twist. Both sweet and dark, playful and mysterious, this is a fairytale with plenty of surprises along the way.

Narrated throughout by acclaimed actor Gina McKee (Our Friends in the North, Hebburn, Bodyguard), the production combines the warmth of traditional storytelling with balletLORENT’s distinctive, accessible approach to dance theatre. The result is an imaginative theatrical adventure that invites children and grown-ups alike to lose themselves in a world of wonder.

The creative team brings together an exceptional collection of talent. Carol Ann Duffy’s words sit alongside an original score by Doctor Who composer Murray Gold, with set design by Mayou Trikerioti (House of David), lighting by internationally renowned designer Malcolm Rippeth and costumes by Nasir Mazhar, known for his work with Lady Gaga. Actor and comedian Ben Crompton joins the team as dramaturg.

Hansel & Gretel and the Witch is the fourth instalment in balletLORENT’s acclaimed touring fairytale series, following Rapunzel (2012/2024), Snow White (2015/2025) and Rumpelstiltskin (2017). At the heart of the production is balletLORENT’s long-standing commitment to bringing professional dance theatre into local communities. Nine professional dancers perform alongside a new young cast in each tour location.

Since 2012, the company has partnered with primary schools near its venues, offering free in-school workshops before selecting around 10 children in each area to join the production. Chosen for their enthusiasm and spirit, the young performers work alongside the professional company to create their own roles on stage. More than 700 young people have now shared the stage with balletLORENT, from the Scottish Highlands to Worthing.

A fairytale filled with wonder, shadow and unexpected delights, Hansel & Gretel and the Witch offers a magical theatrical experience for the whole family.

Tour dates 2027
11–13 February 2027 - Leeds Playhouse
25–27 February 2027 - Durham Gala
5–10 April 2027 - Sadler’s Wells East, London
27–29 May 2027 - Doncaster CAST
3–5 June 2027 - Darlington Hippodrome