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Inspiration • August 5th, 2026
|This December, East Riddlesden Hall, a historic house managed by the National Trust, will be transformed into a magical setting for a brand-new festive show titled Cinderella: An Immersive Pantomime Experience. From the 4th to the 23rd of December 2026, audiences will be invited to step inside the enchanting world of this beloved fairytale, where they can meet characters, explore hidden corners, and immerse themselves in the story.
Magical Experience
Electric Press Productions, the creative team behind this immersive adventure, is set to blend the charm of live music with larger-than-life characters, all against the backdrop of the stunning 17th-century house and its grounds. This production is designed to be more than just a performance; it invites families to become part of the story, making it a unique experience for everyone involved.
The show is created by the award-nominated duo, Samantha Creswick and Emily Susanne Lloyd, who are excited to return after their previous success with A Christmas Carol. The script, written by Calum Finlay, aims to reimagine the classic tale of Cinderella in a way that resonates with modern audiences.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Tale
In this version, Cinderella is not just a damsel in distress; she is a young woman dreaming of escaping her life with her stepfamily. When Prince Max hears her sing at the village Yuletide Fayre, he becomes captivated by her voice. However, when the clock strikes midnight, this Cinderella refuses to follow the traditional ending. Instead, she challenges the norms and invites the prince to choose music, freedom, and adventure over the expectations of royal duty. This reimagining celebrates self-expression, independence, and the importance of defining happiness on one’s own terms.
Director's Vision
Emily Susanne Lloyd, the director, shared her vision for the production:
“When we started talking about what could follow A Christmas Carol, we knew we wanted to create a pantomime, but we wanted to do it in a way that felt unique to Electric Press. Rather than asking audiences to come into a theatre, we're inviting them to step inside the story itself. East Riddlesden Hall felt like the perfect setting.”
“Audiences will journey through the site, discovering characters, music, and magic around every corner. At the heart of our Cinderella is a story about finding your own voice and choosing your own path. We hope families leave having shared a truly magical experience together and created memories that last long after Christmas has passed.”
Details of the Event
The immersive pantomime will run from Friday 4th December to Wednesday 23rd December 2026, with a special press night scheduled for the opening day at 8:00 PM. The performance is suitable for families and audiences aged 5 and up, making it a perfect festive outing for all ages.
Here are some key details for those interested in attending:
Location: East Riddlesden Hall, Bradford Road, Riddlesden, Keighley, BD20 5EL
Running Time: Approximately 80 minutes
About Electric Press Productions
Electric Press Productions is known for its commitment to creating accessible and welcoming theatre experiences. The company focuses on bringing immersive productions to non-traditional environments, encouraging wider participation and spotlighting talent from the North of England, particularly Yorkshire. With a reputation for reinvention and creativity, they aim to create memorable experiences for audiences.
This festive season, Cinderella: An Immersive Pantomime Experience promises to deliver a heart-warming adventure that not only entertains but also inspires families to celebrate their own stories. As the holiday season approaches, this production offers a delightful way to create lasting memories while enjoying the magic of theatre in a historic setting.
