Northern Ballet is bringing the magic with its production of Cinderella. Incredible waltzes, stories of love and of course, glamourous costumes with a slipper or two fill the stage for a night of romance and phenomenal dance. Ahead of its arrival in Norwich, we sat down with dancer Stefano Varalta, who is taking on the wonderful characters of Stepsister Lucretia and Jack, Cinderella’s friend. We get all of the details about his love for this ballet, his career with Northern Ballet and why Cinderella is such a magical story to perform.
What role(s) will you be dancing in Cinderella?
Stepsister Lucretia
Tell us a bit about your dance journey. How long have you been dancing with Northern Ballet?
I’ve been dancing with Northern Ballet since 2022, so this is my fifth season with the company. I’ve been really lucky to have the opportunity to dance some important roles and experience lots of different repertoire. I feel like every role has taught me something new and has really helped me grow and shape me as a dancer.
Have you danced in a version of Cinderella before? If so, which role?
This is actually my first time doing Cinderella, and I have to say, I absolutely love it! I’m especially excited because I’ve been cast as one of the stepsisters and also Jack, so I get to explore two very different characters. I love the music, I love the story, and I really can’t wait to get on stage and perform it!
Why do you think this story has endured the test of time and continues to resonate with audiences of all ages?
I think Cinderella has lasted so long because it’s such a timeless story. It has everything: love, humour, magic, and the idea of believing that something better can happen. I think audiences of all ages can connect with it in some way, and it’s also just a beautiful story to experience on stage.
What do you enjoy most about your character and how they are portrayed in this version of Cinderella?
I think it’s been quite a challenging role, but in a really good way. When you think about the stepsister character, you think “Okay, she has to be ugly and funny,” but actually there’s so much more to it.
I’ve been thinking a lot about how I want the audience to see her. Do I want her to be pretty but envious? Or messy and super excited? And then all these little behaviours have to work together and make sense. It’s been a challenge trying to find the right way to show that through my facial expressions, comedic movements, playing with the dress and all those little details while still keeping some of myself in the character. I’m usually someone who gives a lot of energy and commitment to everything I do, but with this role I’ve also learned when to pull back and not always give everything. And honestly, I’m still discovering the character which is what makes it really exciting for me.
How would you describe this ballet in three words?
Funny, Magical and Heartwarming
