REVIEW: Ballet Shoes at National Theatre

If you’re looking for a theatre show that charms the whole family, Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre is a triumph.

This new stage adaptation delivers warmth, whimsy, and genuine heart.

With a ramshackle London home full of fossils and curiosities it feels like a storybook come to life. There are creative video and stage effects and a sense of wonder at every turn, hitting all the right marks for magic and atmosphere.

There are strong performances and energy. The trio of sisters at the show’s heart — each with distinct personalities, dreams and struggles — shine in their roles. The cast carries the story with sincerity, humour and emotional clarity, delivering both the comedic and touching moments beautifully.

Though based on a classic children’s novel, the show’s themes — identity, ambition, family, self-discovery — ring true for audiences of all ages. It’s more than just a “kids’ show”: it’s a thoughtful coming-of-age tale with heart and soul.

With inventive choreography, the show incorporates ballet, dance, theatrical illusion and movement to give the stage a dynamic energy. The transitions, scenes of dance, and visual storytelling all make the show come alive.

For anyone expecting a high-speed, show-biz musical or blockbuster spectacle, Ballet Shoes may feel slower as it plods along.

Despite the title, there is less “ballet” than you might expect. The production isn’t strictly a dance-heavy. Rather, it uses dance and movement as part of a broader theatrical storytelling — which contributes to its charm, but might surprise anyone expecting classical ballet.

Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre is a lovely mix of nostalgia, theatrical care and modern sensitivity. It’s the kind of show that works for both youngsters seeing the story live for the first time, and adults returning with fond memories.

Whether you’re coming for the dance, the story of three spirited sisters carving their own paths, or just a cosy festive outing — this production brings heart, charm and a gentle reminder that dreams, family and ambition still matter.