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The Light Princess

The Light Princess

National Theatre

The Light Princess is a dark fairytale about grief, rebellion and the power of love. Once, in opposing kingdoms lived a princess and a prince who had lost their mothers. Althea, unable to cry, became light with grief and floated, and so was locked away. Digby became so heavy-hearted that he could never smile, and so was trained as a warrior. Through the story they meet each other, confront their grief and form a new kingdom. This collection includes a short film on fairy tales and an interview with Professor Bill Gray on the original story of The Light Princess and its author George MacDonald.

5 - Costume in The Light Princess: King Ignacia
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  • 5 - Costume in The Light Princess: King Ignacia

    See how Designer Rae Smith's costume concepts are turned into beautiful finished pieces in the National Theatre costume workshop. This short film follows the process of creating the beautiful military dress coat worn by Hal Fowler as King Ignacio, from initial sketches to the full detail of the finished piece.

    Wed, 02 Apr 2014 - 5min
  • 4 - Costume in The Light Princess: Althea

    Go into the National Theatre's costume workshop and fitting room to show how a dress, worn by Rosalie Craig as Althea in The Light Princess, was designed and created for the stage. We learn how Designer Rae Smith's period inspirations are turned into a finished garment by Head Ladies' Cutter Sarah Mercer, finally seeing the detail of the dress close-up.

    Tue, 01 Apr 2014 - 6min
  • 3 - Marianne Elliott (director) and Rae Smith (designer) in conversation

    The director and designer of The Light Princess discuss working with an ambitious narrative that involves the protagonist floating throughout the majority of the play.

    Fri, 17 Jan 2014 - 28min
  • 2 - An Introduction to Fairy Tales

    Explore the history and world of fairy tales, featuring interviews with authors Sally Gardner and Philip Pullman, and Professor Bill Gray.

    Fri, 11 Oct 2013 - 5min
  • 1 - Prof Bill Gray on fairy tales, George MacDonald and The Light Princess

    Professor Bill Gray discusses the life and work of George MacDonald, including The Light Princess and The Princess and the Goblin, and reflects on the presence of the fairy tale in the 19th century. The Light Princess has been adapted for the stage and will be performing at the National Theatre from 25 September.

    Fri, 11 Oct 2013 - 9min