Boston’s connection to ballet is profound and historic—home to Boston Ballet, founded in 1963 by E. Virginia Williams as New England’s first professional ballet company and is now one of North America’s most respected troupes. And today, Ballet of Lights Boston is transforming the stage at Huntington Theatre into a glowing dreamscape where fairytales take on new life. This unique show blends the elegance of classical ballet with cutting-edge lighting technology, turning each pirouette and leap into a burst of shimmering color.
Currently featuring the beloved story of Cinderella, this family-friendly event offers a chance to see a timeless tale told through dance and light.
What is Ballet of Lights?
Ballet of Lights weaves together traditional ballet with modern visual magic. Dancers wear costumes embedded with lights that change with each movement, mood, and musical shift. This abridged ballet—perfect for new audiences—packs the beauty and emotion of the art form into just 60 minutes, making it more accessible without losing its enchantment. With past productions of Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan, and now Cinderella, the performance celebrates ballet’s expressive nature while inviting viewers into a world of boundless imagination.
Ballet of Lights in Boston: Which story is being performed now?
For now, Boston audiences can enjoy the spellbinding glow of Cinderella. This 60-minute show is suitable for anyone aged 5 and up. While new tales are on the horizon and old favorites will return, this season’s spotlight belongs to the rags-to-riches magic of one of the world’s most cherished fairytales.
Cinderella
The story of Cinderella has been told for centuries, from ancient Greece’s tale of Rhodopis to the Chinese Yeh-hsien, and Giambattista Basile’s Italian La Gatta Cenerentola. The version most recognized today comes from Charles Perrault’s 1697 Cendrillon, introducing the glass slipper, pumpkin coach, and Fairy Godmother. Sergei Prokofiev’s ballet adaptation premiered in 1945 and became a musical masterpiece, with selections such as Overture by Willem Tell, Clair de lune by C. Debussy, Dance Macabre by C. Saint-Saëns, and II. Walzer from Serenade in C Major, Op. 48 by Tchaikovsky. The Ballet of Lights version keeps the heart of the story intact—Cinderella’s transformation, her magical night at the ball, and the quest for the one who fits the slipper.
Ballet of Lights Reviews in Boston
“My daughter and I loved the ballet. It was beautiful and enchanting.” — October 2025
“Amazing show! Loved the story, costumes, lighting, and theater. The chemistry between the stepsister in the orange and stepmother in the green was outstanding. I found myself laughing out loud on several occasions when the stepsister was on stage! Can’t wait to see this show/cast again.” — October 2025
“Beautifully lighted costumes, gorgeous dancing and a delight to enjoy.” — October 2025
“Awesome experience. Would recommend.” — October 2025
With selected dates and showtimes at The Main Stage at Huntington Theatre, Ballet of Lights: Cinderella is a chance to witness a childhood classic reinvented for the modern stage. There’s something timeless about watching a fairytale come to life—especially when it’s told through a glowing blend of tradition and technology. This dazzling performance is sure to enchant both kids and adults alike.