Northern Ballet brings new adaptation of bestselling novel to Hull New Theatre
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas stars Hull dancer Ashley Dixon in leading role of Shmuel
Northern Ballet returns to Hull for the first time in two years next week with an adaptation of John Boyne’s bestselling novel, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas.
The heart-breaking new production is the first full-length dance adaptation of the world-famous story and stars Hull dancer and former Northern Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) student, Ashley Dixon.
Ashley will perform the lead role of Shmuel in the show which tells the story of an unlikely friendship blossoming through the disturbing events of the Second World War.
Previously adapted for a 2008 film by Miramax, Northern Ballet’s production is choreographed by the company’s artistic associate, Daniel de Andrade and features an original score by Oscar-nominated composer Gary Yershon.
Daniel said: “I was challenged to develop new storytelling techniques which reflect the first person perspective of the book without shying away from representing the stark reality of the story’s setting.
“I was very conscious of doing justice to the tension between darkness and innocence in the original, without sanitising the awful events at its heart.”
The original storytelling ballet company, Northern Ballet is renowned for creating bold new work which challenges the perceptions of what stories can be told through dance and has a company of exceptional dance actors.
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is at Hull New Theatre from Wednesday, October 18 to Saturday, October 21 nightly at 7.30pm. There are matinee performances at 2.30pm on Thursday and Saturday.
Tickets are from £10. Book online at www.hulltheatres.co.uk or use this link. Tickets can also be booked by calling 01482 300 306 or in person at the Hull New Theatre or Hull City Hall box offices.