Ugly Duckling, Northern Ballet, Linbury Theatre

Northern Ballet is well known for its narrative ballets, having developed a clear and cogent way of telling complicated stories through dance. Side by side with its mainstream ballets for grown-ups, the company has also developed a sideline in short, accessible ballets for children as young as four. And the production that started it all, Ugly Duckling, returns to the stage this autumn and pays a visit to the Royal Opera House's Linbury Theatre.

Based on the famous Hans Christian Andersen tale, Ugly Duckling tells the story of the lonely duckling who tries very hard to fit in with all manner of other animals – fellow ducklings, frogs, cats, even a fox – only to realise she's not like them and be left sad and alone.

Ugly Duckling [TRAILER] from Northern Ballet on Vimeo.

Of course, as we know, and the little spectators will be thrilled to find out, the ugly duckling grows up to be a gorgeous swan, so all's well that ends well!

Northern Ballet's Ugly Duckling was specially developed for young children as a colourful, amusing and engaging way for them to experience live dance, music and theatre together at an affordable price. Choreography is by former Northern Ballet leading soloist Dreda Blow and former dancer Sebastian Loe, and it's performed to live music played by members of Northern Ballet Sinfonia.

Ugly Duckling was the first of an award-winning series of children's ballets by the company, which has included Pinocchio, Elves and the Shoemaker, Goldilocks and the Three Bears and Little Red Riding Hood, to mention but a few.

Age Guidance: 4+