Pinocchio heralds reopening of Town Hall Theatre

Since its temporary closure in March 2020 during the COVID pandemic, the theatre has been used as an NHS vaccine centre, helping to roll out the town’s vaccination programme and delivering over 41,000 vaccines since December 2020.

However, this April the show will go on when one of the UK’s leading ballet companies will grace the stage of the historic theatre, which celebrates its 125th birthday this September.

The prestigious Northern Ballet is bringing its world-class performance of Pinocchio to audiences on Friday 1st April at 2pm and 4pm.

Pinocchio is the newest children’s production created by Northern Ballet. In this original retelling of the Italian story by Carlo Collodi, a lonely carpenter wishes for his puppet Pinocchio to come to life

After the dream comes true thanks to the magic of a wishing well, Pinocchio sets out to prove himself worthy of becoming a real boy.

This child-friendly 40-minute ballet has been created especially for children aged 3+ and their families to experience live theatre together.

Harris Beattie and Bruno Serraclara in Pinocchio

Councillor Tim Fleming, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Adult and Community Based Services Committee, said: “We are absolutely delighted that after two years of no performances we can finally re-open our doors to our audiences, and what better way to launch our new programme than with a performance from the majestic Northern Ballet.

“This show will be very special and is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy the magic of live ballet, dance and theatre. Tickets are selling extremely fast with only a handful of seats left so we are encouraging people to book now to avoid missing out.”

Pinocchio follows in the footsteps of the company’s seven previous children’s ballets, which have achieved great popularity live on stage, in CBeebies TV adaptations and in cinemas nationwide.

With a choreographic debut by Northern Ballet’s Junior Soloist Gavin McCaig, Pinocchio will be performed to music by Ian Stephens, played live by members of Northern Ballet Sinfonia at every venue. Sets are designed by Frankie Bradshaw, lighting is by Abbi Fearnley and costumes are designed by Carley Marsh and Kim Brassley.

Gavin McCaig said: “Having premiered Pinocchio in October 2021, I am thrilled the show will now be touring so extensively in 2022.

“Northern Ballet’s children’s ballets have been enchanting families across the UK for several years, creating a truly magical live dance experience for all ages to enjoy together, and it’s both a privilege and a pleasure to be creating for the next generation of audiences and artists.”

Tickets cost £7 for adults and £5.50 for children and can be purchased by clicking here. 

This summer will also see the return of professional pantomime when AJ Theatrical Productions bring their summer spectacular ‘The Wizard of Oz’ to Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre. The family-friendly panto will run from Thursday 18th August to Monday 29th August.