Matthew Bourne’s double Olivier Award-winning production of The Red Shoes is poised to make a triumphant return for a 2025/26 UK tour — the first since its 2020 run was prematurely curtailed by the pandemic. Based on the iconic 1948 film by Powell and Pressburger, this sumptuous, cinematic ballet is both a passionate tribute to the world of theatre and dance and a bold storytelling masterpiece that has become a firm favourite among audiences and critics alike.
Marking the production’s 10th anniversary, this much-anticipated revival will see no fewer than 11 members of the original 2016 cast don their costumes once more, many possibly for the last time, making this a unique moment in New Adventures’ storied legacy.
Leading the cast in the coveted role of Victoria Page — the ballerina torn between love and art — are Ashley Shaw, Cordelia Braithwaite, Hannah Kremer, and Holly Saw. Taking on the formidable role of the controlling impresario Boris Lermontov are Andy Monaghan and Reece Causton, while Julian Kraster, the young composer who captures Victoria’s heart, will be played by Dominic North and Leonardo McCorkindale.
The role of Irina Boronskaya will be shared between Michela Meazza, Cordelia Braithwaite, and Katrina Lyndon. Liam Mower, Will Bozier, and Jackson Fisch will alternate as Ivan Boleslawsky, with the intense and enigmatic Grischa Ljubov portrayed by Glenn Graham, Liam Mower, and Reece Causton.
The production also features an ensemble of seasoned performers and rising stars, including Mark Austin, Tom Barnes Standing, Isabella Chandler (New Adventures Emerging Artist), Adam Davies, Cameron Flynn, Anna-Maria de Freitas, Christina Gibbs, Thomas Ireson, Rosanna Lindsey, Callum Mann, Daisy May Kemp, Jarrod McWilliams, Matthew Potulski, Molly Shaw-Downie, Kingston Taylor, Shakiera Ward, and Daisy West.
Artistic Director Matthew Bourne shared his excitement about the production’s return, stating:
“I’m thrilled to announce today that 11 of the original cast of The Red Shoes, which premiered in 2016, are returning for this 10th Anniversary production, performing the roles they created — possibly for the last time. This is something that no New Adventures fan will want to miss! The Red Shoes was the culmination of a twenty-year ambition… a personal love letter to a life in theatre and dance. I’m so happy to see it return this year, especially as our last tour in 2020 was sadly cut short by the pandemic and left many of our loyal audiences throughout the UK disappointed.”
The 2025/26 tour promises is a chance to rediscover the magic, heartbreak, and soaring beauty of Matthew’s unforgettable reimagining. In the words of Lermontov himself: “It’s time to put on the red shoes, Vicky, and dance for us again…”
You can see all the tour dates and book tickets here!
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