The Snow Queen Returns: A Glittering Winter Spectacle for Scotland
Scottish Ballet brings back its magical hit The Snow Queen, starring more Scottish-trained dancers than ever before — touring nationwide from November 2025 to January 2026.
When the curtain rises on Scottish Ballet’s The Snow Queen this winter, audiences across the country will be swept into a world of glistening frost, icy power, and spellbinding storytelling. Returning by popular demand to mark the 150th anniversary of Hans Christian Andersen’s death, the ballet transforms the iconic tale — which inspired Frozen — into a breathtaking dance production packed with drama, emotion, and sparkling snow.
Until 31 January 2026, the show tours Scotland’s biggest stages, inviting families, newcomers, and dedicated dance lovers into its mesmerising winter world. What makes this year’s run even more special? The Snow Queen will be led by a company featuring more homegrown Scottish talent than ever before, all trained through the Scottish Ballet Associates programme.
A Production Bursting with Beauty, Ice and Emotion
Choreographed by CEO and Artistic Director Christopher Hampson and brought to life through Lez Brotherston’s award-winning design, The Snow Queen is a shimmering feast for the senses. Town squares buzz with colour and warmth before giving way to icy palaces, glittering dark magic and swirling snowstorms.
The Scottish Ballet Orchestra performs Rimsky-Korsakov’s soaring score live, heightening every chase, every triumph, and every heartbreak as characters battle against winter’s spell.
“Filled with love, laughter, heroism, and a lot of sparkling snow — it will be a delight for all ages this Christmas,” says Principal dancer Jessica Fyfe, who debuts in the title role this season.
Fyfe performs alongside Marlen Fuerte Castro and Roseanna Leney, with new Principal dancers stepping into lead roles for the first time — including James Garrington, dancing the role of Kai.
Talent Born and Raised in Scotland
This season doesn’t just bring back a magical ballet; it celebrates those performing it. Six dancers now in Scottish Ballet’s main company began their journeys in the Associates programme — travelling for weekly lessons, balancing school and training, and dreaming of heading out on tour. Now, they’re at the centre of one of Scotland’s biggest arts productions.
Artistic Director Christopher Hampson calls the moment “a showcase of the depth of talent throughout the Company.”
For some dancers, including Aberdeen-born Alfie McPherson, this return to Scotland is a homecoming:
“This somewhat windy path has culminated in me moving back to Scotland and joining Scottish Ballet. I am truly grateful for the opportunity.”
While for Kirkcaldy’s Hannah Cubitt, who once travelled every weekend for training, life has come full circle:
“When the tour reached Inverness, I was offered a full-time contract. I was thrilled.”
Their stories bring extra warmth to a winter production already rich with heart.
Perfect for Families: A Second Seasonal Treat
Alongside The Snow Queen, Scottish Ballet introduces The Wee Nutcracker at Tramway Glasgow in December — a charming, shorter work created especially for young children, giving little audiences their first taste of theatrical magic.
Tour Dates: The Snow Queen 2025–26
Festival Theatre, Edinburgh
Until 7 December 2025
Theatre Royal, Glasgow
3 – 17 January 2026
His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen
21 – 24 January 2026
Eden Court, Inverness
28 – 31 January 2026
⏱️ Running time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including 25-minute interval)
A Seasonal Tradition, More Magical Than Ever
The Snow Queen has cemented itself as one of Scotland’s favourite winter traditions — a ballet that dazzles children, moves adults, and showcases the incredible artistry of the Scottish Ballet Company. This year, that magic shines even brighter, carried by dancers who began their journeys right here at home.
With its icy power, unforgettable characters, sweeping music and sparkling designs, The Snow Queen promises a winter escape like no other. As the cold nights draw in, theatres will glow with warmth, wonder… and just a little bit of frost.