East Midlands-based theatre-maker and performer Laura Ryder has been selected through an open call-out to direct The Ugly Duckling, one of Nottingham Playhouse’s in-house productions for Christmas 2024.
She said, “I’m thrilled to be directing The Ugly Duckling. For many children in the audience, this will be their first experience of theatre, which is magical and a real privilege to direct.
“For me, this classic tale is a story about the joy of being yourself, which is such a lovely message to share with young audiences. This playful adaptation of The Ugly Duckling will celebrate difference, reminding us that standing out is the new fitting in.”
The theatre’s artistic director, Adam Penford, commented, “Christmas is always a wonderful time at the Playhouse, with our panto Jack and the Beanstalk and this year’s studio show, The Ugly Duckling. I can’t wait to see how the talented team conjure up this classic tale.”
The writer and composer of The Ugly Duckling will also be selected through an open call-out, while the designer will be the winner of the Playhouse Prize, awarded to a student on Nottingham Trent University’s theatre and live performance design course.
The Ugly Duckling will run from Thursday 5 December until Saturday 4 January 2025.