“It would be a mistake to see this story as an old-fashioned one,” writes The Guardian critic Arifa Akbar. “Non-domestic, independent femininity lies at heart, still refreshingly bold today.” The very first stage adaptation of Ballet Shoes, Noel Streatfeild’s classic 1936 children’s novel, breathes new life into the tale of Pauline, Petrova, and Posy—three adopted sisters navigating their identities and dreams. An eccentric and often absent adoptive guardian, Great Uncle Matthew (Gum), leaves them to be raised in the unconventional household of his great-niece Sylvia and the steadfast Nana. Grappling with abandonment and poverty, the girls nevertheless embark on inspiring journeys to discover their individual passions. Kendall Feaver adapts and Katy Rudd directs this enchanting, inspirational, and touching tale. —Jeanne Malle