A children’s ballet based on Emma Thompson’s hit Nanny McPhee movies is to receive its premiere in London next month after the star gave the go-ahead for the show.
The Oscar-winning actress, who wrote the scripts and appeared in the films, offered to help with the dance show, with the backing of Universal Studios, after seeing an earlier production by London Children’s Ballet.
The charity campaigns to make the art accessible to young people from all backgrounds.
Artistic director Lucille Briance said she read many books to try to find great stories for shows, adding: “I’m always looking for a story that has a really strong dramatic line.”
But the charity, now in its 20th year, could not afford to spend money on rights, so Thompson’s help was a blessing.
Mrs Briance said: “She is the most marvellous philanthropic person.” Thompson, who wrote the films based on Christianna Brand’s Nurse Matilda books, is set to attend the premiere of the ballet on April 24.
Annabelle Adey, 14, from Epsom, Surrey, will take the title role. The teenager, who has been dancing since she was two, said it was “really exciting”, adding: “It’s such a big production and a much bigger stage than I have ever danced on before. It’s like a dream.”
Cameron Nolan, 10, from Banstead, Surrey, said it was “amazing” to have the chance to play Sebastian, one of Nanny’s charges.
Around 550 children aged nine to 16 auditioned for 60 parts.
Nanny McPhee is at the Peacock Theatre from April 24 to 27. Tickets at londonchildrensballet.com or sadlerswells.com.
