Lancaster director delighted to return home for Cinderella Christmas show

Cinderella has been revealed as The Dukes' Christmas show for 2026 and its director is returning home to help bring the classic tale to the Lancaster stage.

Cinderella will be the only Christmas show in the county performed in a round theatre space, when it comes to the Lancaster venue from November 21 to January 2.

The show will be directed by Polly Wain, The Dukes Young Company alumna, who was born in Lancaster and said she was "absolutely thrilled" to be directing this adaptation of the popular fairytale.

“The theatre has been a huge part of my life - from watching the Christmas productions with my family to spending 10 years as a member of the Young Company," said Polly.

"Those experiences are what sparked my interest in theatre, so returning to the Dukes to direct this year’s festive production feels like a full circle moment.

"And what a joy to be working with Ian Kershaw on his surprising and big-hearted adaptation…”

The writer behind the script, BAFTA-winning Ian Kershaw, said: “I wrote this show for the Dukes, Lancaster some years ago – a show, not a panto! I wanted to tell the story of Cinderella for my daughters and their friends (not just girls).

"A version with Doc Marten boots instead of glass slippers and where our hero finds the solutions to problems with the help of her friends.

"People came, lots of people (some came back again) to laugh and cheer and dance and clap along to a story where we learn that when bad guys ride into town the good will come together and always win. It’s Christmas too! It’s a proper Christmas feel-good show where everyone leaves with a tingle in their hearts and a grin on their faces. And now, this year, in the round, we get to do it all over again, in a new, more improved version. It’s a party where you and everyone you know are invited – come and join us!”

The Dukes promises a show packed full of original songs performed live by the cast, stunning costumes and laugh-out-loud comedy... Christmas at its very best!

The story follows Ella, brave, fierce and determined to forge her own path, who must navigate her new stepfamily.

While doing so she learns the true magic of believing in yourself, uncovers royal secrets, and discovers the value of following your heart!

Tickets must be booked in advance.

Group bookings and Educational discounts available.

Please contact the Dukes Box Office on 01524 598500 or tickets@dukeslancaster.org or book online HERE.