Beyond the Glass Slipper: Why PNB's ‘Cinderella’ Is the Human Fairy Tale We Need Now

Pacific Northwest BalletArts & CultureEvents

Jan 10

PNB Company dancers in Kent Stowell’s “Cinderella.” (Photo: Angela Sterling)

Pacific Northwest Ballet is rolling out the red carpet, or perhaps, the magnificent golden ballroom, for the return of founding artistic director Kent Stowell’s production of “Cinderella.” This isn't just a classic tale, but a spectacle of human emotion and breathtaking artistry running for only ten performances, January 30 through February 8, 2026, at McCaw Hall.

While the sheer scale is astounding. From designers Martin Pakledinaz’s 120 costumes and 30 wigs to Tony Straiges’ scenic drops that transport you to a Versailles vista, the true magic lies in the intention behind the steps.

The Heart of the Story

Choreographer Kent Stowell deliberately shifts the focus from grand fairytale conventions to the heart of Cinderella's journey. This production is grounded in the human experience:

The Memory Mother: The Fairy Godmother portrays Cinderella's late mother—a beautiful, tender echo that roots Cinderella’s dream in the memory of a happy, harmonious family life.
Real-Life Stepsisters: PNB’s stepsisters are mean and socially awkward, but it’s portrayed to feel relatably human. They are flawed people, not cartoon villains.
Happily Ever After: The final pas de deux is intentionally scaled down from the traditional ending. It’s an unaffected dance that Stowell called "a picture of the very best adult love"—a natural, genuine connection that we all want to believe in.

Paired with Prokofiev’s evocative score, this production weaves together the fantasy of dancing pumpkins and a majestic ivory carriage with the deeply moving story of resilience and finding genuine love.

Don't Miss Your Moment

Whether you're bringing a child (discounts available for 14 and under!) or simply seeking a sophisticated, emotionally rich piece of theater, this production delivers. At two hours and 45 minutes, including two intermissions, it's a full, unforgettable evening out.

Tickets start at $44, but with only ten live performances, they are going fast!

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