12-17 February 2024
When a cheeky Hare won’t stop boasting about how fast he can run, thoughtful Tortoise decides it is time to join him in a race. No one thinks Tortoise can win, but when Hare gets distracted by games and treats, Tortoise might just surprise us all.
The perfect introduction to live ballet and music, your little ones will be cheering along as a playful cast of characters re-tell this classic tale.
Our Mumbler review:
Today I went along to see this great family show with my 8 year old and 4 year old. We were so very excited for our Half Term trip to Leeds City Centre to see Tortoise & the Hare! Before we left, we read the story which is available on the website together, so that both children could have a better understanding of what was happening.
On arrival to the Northern Ballet we were greeted by super friendly staff and given a little activity to find characters hidden around the theatre foyer, on completion the children were given a sticker. There were also a number of crafts available to complete (we made some medals, but there were also coloring activities, or you could make Hare ears!). My son absolutely loves crafting so was sold the minute he arrived! If you’re coming with a baby or toddler, there is a pram park in the foyer and also a rack available to hang your coats to give you more space when you’re sitting!
The doors to the auditorium opened about 20 minutes before the performance. It’s a relatively small theatre which felt more intimate & comfortable. You were able to take drinks in there as long as they were decanted to paper cups. There were booster seats available for small children which actually increased the fun for both of mine.
The performance itself was just wonderful; a bright & colourful set and costumes, easy to follow storyline, great accompanying music and obviously the dancing was just wonderful. There were plenty of laughs along the way and the audience were clearly enjoying themselves. It’s just 40 minutes long, so perfect to keep the engagement of small children. Because it is aimed at children, it felt really relaxed. My son enjoyed giving me a running commentary of what was happening, and I could hear whispers of similar conversations around the room (not that it hampered anyone’s enjoyment!). Just a really, really lovely morning and great experience for our family!
*Our tickets to the show were gifted, but this is a performance that we would have bought tickets for anyway. I really love the Northern Ballet shows- pinky promise!
