The Observer
"Magical."
Arthur Pita reimagines Hans Christian Andersen’s heartbreaking fairy tale as a magical dance-theatre fable, brought back to the candlelit surroundings of Wilton’s Music Hall for the festive season.
Set one freezing Christmas Eve in a make-believe Italian town, the story follows a young girl out in the streets with only one last match to keep her warm. As its flame flickers against the dark, she meets moments of cruelty and unexpected tenderness from the people she passes, in a winter tale told through dance, song and Frank Moon’s live score, with designs by Yann Seabra.
Directed and choreographed by Arthur Pita, this multi-award-winning production has been praised as magical and spell-binding. Staged in the atmospheric Victorian hall on the edge of the City, it makes an enchanting festive show for all ages.
Why it’s worth the watch
A candlelit Christmas fable that offers a beautiful alternative to the usual festive fare.
- Storytelling in dance. Arthur Pita reimagines Andersen’s tale through movement, song and live music rather than a traditional script.
- A perfect venue. The Victorian splendour of Wilton’s Music Hall makes an atmospheric home for a winter fairy tale.
- Critically adored. Reviewers have called it magical, spell-binding and an enchanting gem of a show.
- Festive but tender. It swaps pantomime slapstick for a moving meditation on hope, compassion and imagination for all ages.
