Game of Thrones star to narrate Newcastle ballet production

An established actor, who has appeared in the cult television series Game of Thrones, is set to narrate a brand-new production from a Newcastle-based ballet company. 

BalletLORENT, which was founded in 1993 by Liv Lorent, are putting on their first production to be shown in their brand-new venue - the John Marley Centre, which is located in the West End of Newcastle.

On Wednesday, November 15 BalletLORENT will premiere a special production, named The Velveteen Rabbit (How Toys Become Real). 

The show, which is based on the classic children’s tale by Margery Williams, will focus on toys coming to life through the magic of storytelling, music and dance.

Familiar children’s toys that will feature include a rabbit, a horse, a tin robot, a monkey with cymbals, a rag doll and an astronaut. 

The toys will share an adventure with a young boy who sleeps and plays in the nursery where the toys are kept, showcasing the power of love to the audience.

The show, which features a cast of six, has been developed to suit two different age groups of children. 

For children aged 0-3, the performance has been adapted into a gentle, immersive play experience, led by contemporary dancers with early years expertise. The performance will last for 30 minutes.

For children aged 4+, the show will follow a more traditional form of storytelling, with dance, costume and narration, lasting for 45 minutes. 

Children from both age groups will be invited to meet the cast after the show.

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Game of Thrones actor Ben Crompton will be the narrator for the show, which has been directed by BalletLORENT founder and artist director Liv Lorent.

Music will come from Doctor Who composer, Murray Gold as well as 12-year-old Albie Crompton.

Props for the show have been hand-knitted by a group of women from Newcastle, under the guidance of fashion designer Nasir Mazhar.

Liv Lorent said of the production : “I chose to bring the century old story of The Velveteen Rabbit to life as it works on two levels, speaking to both children and adults.

"Ahead of its time, it has strong messages of accepting differences and not getting hung up on a quest for physical perfection.

"It is very special to be able to hold the premiere at our new home and to invite audiences in for the first time. We look forward to launching many other productions at the John Marley Centre, which is proving to be a fantastic base for the company."

For more information and to book a ticket for The Velveteen Rabbit (How Toys Become Real), please visit the BalletLorent website.