The National Theatre has announced full casting for the festive return of Kendall Feaver’s acclaimed adaptation of Noel Streatfeild’s much-loved novel Ballet Shoes, as rehearsals begin on the South Bank. Part of Director and Co-CEO Indhu Rubasingham’s inaugural season, the production runs in the Olivier Theatre from 17 November 2025 to 21 February 2026.

Joining the previously announced Sienna Arif-Knights as Petrova Fossil, Nina Cassells as Pauline Fossil, Scarlett Monahan as Posy Fossil, Anoushka Lucas as Sylvia, Lesley Nicol as Nana, Pandora Colin as Dr Jakes, Justin Salinger as Great Uncle Matthew and others are ensemble members Julie Armstrong, Shailan Gohil, and Mark Hammersley, rounding out a large and vibrant cast.

In a crumbling house filled with fossils, three adopted sisters – Pauline, Petrova and Posy – grow up under the care of their guardian Sylvia, Nana, and a lively group of lodgers. Each determined to follow her own dreams, the sisters face the challenges of ambition, resilience, and family unity in a world not designed for girls with big aspirations.

The creative team includes set designer Frankie Bradshaw, costume designer Samuel Wyer, choreographer Ellen Kane, composer Asaf Zohar, orchestrator Gavin Sutherland, lighting designer Paule Constable, sound designer Ian Dickinson for Autograph, and video designer Ash J Woodward, with illusions by Chris Fisher. Casting is by Bryony Jarvis-Taylor CDG and Martin Poile CDG.

In partnership with Coram, the UK’s longest running children’s charity, Ballet Shoes will once again highlight the importance of adoption and family throughout its run.

Ballet Shoes plays in the Olivier Theatre from 17 November 2025 to 21 February 2026, with press night on Tuesday 25 November 2025. Recommended for ages 7–107.

Tickets available at nationaltheatre.org.uk