The Rose Theatre has unveiled the cast and creative team for its brand-new festive production of Cinderella, running from 26 November 2025 – 4 January 2026. Written by Olivier Award winner Chris Bush and Roni Neale, with new songs by Matt Winkworth, this promises to be a Christmas show with a twist. Here’s what you need to know.

1. A Fresh Retelling of a Classic Fairy Tale

This isn’t your traditional Cinderella. Olivier Award-winning playwright Chris Bush (Standing at the Sky’s Edge) teams up with Roni Neale and composer Matt Winkworth to give the timeless story a modern, magical spin. Expect laughs, mischief, and some unexpected twists.

2. Meet the Cast

The professional cast includes Maddy Hunter as Ella, Joaquin Pedro Valdes as Prince Chadley, Hannah Akhalu as Snotterella, Corrina Buchan as Groterella, and Simon Yadoo as Richard/Lord Richard. They’ll be joined by members of the Rose Youth Theatre, giving young talent the chance to share the stage with seasoned professionals.

3. An Award-Winning Creative Team

The show is directed by Owen Horsley (Royal Shakespeare Company Associate Artist), with set and costume design by Ryan Dawson Laight, lighting design by Bretta Gerreke, and puppetry direction by Yvonne Stone (War Horse, The Lion King). With choreography, music and staging at this level, audiences can expect something truly spectacular.

4. A Family Show with a Twist

When teenager Ella is forced to spend Christmas at her dad’s house with her new stepmum and noisy twin stepsisters, she wishes for escape – only to be whisked into a magical world of castles, balls and princes. But all is not as it seems in this coming-of-age festive adventure.

5. A Christmas Tradition at the Rose

The Rose Theatre has become known for bold new takes on classic tales at Christmas, blending professional actors with its acclaimed Rose Youth Theatre. Artistic Director Christopher Haydon says: “Our new production of Cinderella promises to bring both magic and mischief at this special time of year that will delight boys and girls, young and old alike.”

Listings Information

Cinderella
Rose Theatre, Kingston
26 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Press Night: Thursday 4 December 2025, 7.30pm
Book Tickets