Varna International Ballet in Torquay

Varna International Ballet brings three classical ballet masterpieces to Torquay’s Princess Theatre for one special weekend, 13-14 March 2026. This acclaimed Bulgarian company, founded in 1947, presents Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Cinderella with award-winning dancers, magnificent corps de ballet, and full live orchestra performing Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev’s immortal scores.

As the final weekend of Varna’s extensive 2026 UK tour, these Torquay performances offer a last chance to experience world-class classical ballet in one of the English Riviera’s most elegant venues.

Varna International Ballet Torquay: Performance Schedule

The Three Ballets Coming to Torquay

Friday: Swan Lake (13 March, 7:30pm)

Tchaikovsky’s immortal masterpiece tells the tragic love story of Prince Siegfried and Princess Odette, transformed into a swan by an evil sorcerer. By day she is a swan, only regaining human form at night by the lake. When the prince encounters Odette and falls in love, he vows to break the curse. But at a royal ball, the sorcerer tricks him with his daughter Odile, the Black Swan, who bears an uncanny resemblance to Odette. Siegfried’s mistaken declaration of love dooms his relationship with Odette, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion.

Why it’s unforgettable: Swan Lake is ballet’s most iconic work, featuring the legendary Dance of the Little Swans, breathtaking White Swan and Black Swan pas de deux, and Tchaikovsky’s sublime score. The dual role of Odette/Odile is considered the ultimate test of a ballerina’s artistry – requiring her to portray both the innocent, vulnerable white swan and the seductive, technically dazzling black swan. Perfect for those seeking ballet’s greatest masterpiece and ideal for first-time audiences.

Saturday: The Nutcracker & Cinderella Double Bill (14 March, 7:30pm)

A unique opportunity to experience two beloved ballets in one spectacular evening – the only double bill performance on Varna’s entire UK tour.

The Nutcracker

Tchaikovsky’s enchanting holiday ballet follows young Clara on a magical Christmas Eve journey. When her nutcracker doll comes to life at midnight to battle the Mouse King, Clara helps him win. The Nutcracker transforms into a handsome prince and whisks her away through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy and her court perform dazzling dances culminating in the magnificent Waltz of the Flowers.

Perfect for: The entire family. Pure theatrical magic with thrilling battle scenes, enchanting snowflakes, and exotic character dances from around the world. Children aged 5+ will be captivated by the transformation scenes and magical special effects.

Cinderella

Prokofiev’s glittering ballet brings the beloved fairy tale to life with stunning choreography. Mistreated by her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, Cinderella dreams of a better life. When her Fairy Godmother transforms her rags into a beautiful ball gown, she attends the Prince’s ball where they fall instantly in love. But as midnight strikes, she must flee, leaving behind only a glass slipper and the promise of happily-ever-after.

Perfect for: Fairy-tale lovers seeking an uplifting story of kindness, hope, and true love. Prokofiev’s romantic and witty score perfectly captures both the cruelty of Cinderella’s situation and the magic of her transformation. The Grand Waltz at the palace ball is one of ballet’s most magnificent sequences.

About Varna International Ballet

Founded in 1947, Varna International Ballet has established itself as one of Europe’s premier classical ballet companies over more than 75 years. Based in Varna, Bulgaria, the company is renowned for its award-winning soloists, impeccable corps de ballet, and unwavering commitment to preserving the great traditions of classical ballet.

The Varna name carries exceptional prestige in the ballet world. The Varna International Ballet Competition, founded in 1964, is often called “the Olympics of Ballet” – the world’s first and most prestigious professional ballet competition where legendary dancers including Mikhail Baryshnikov, Sylvie Guillem, and Vladimir Malakhov gained early international recognition.

Led by Artistic Director Daniela Dimova and Music Director Peter Tuleshkov, Varna International Ballet’s productions feature traditional choreography faithful to the original masters, lavish period costumes, spectacular sets, and full live orchestra. Their previous UK tours in 2023 and 2025 sold out, making early booking essential for Torquay’s performances.

Princess Theatre Torquay: Venue Guide

Princess Theatre, opened in 1961, is Torbay’s premier entertainment venue and the English Riviera’s largest theatre. Located on Torquay’s seafront with stunning views across Torbay, the 1,500-seat theatre has hosted everyone from West End productions to international ballet companies, making it the perfect setting for Varna International Ballet’s tour finale.

Getting to Princess Theatre Torquay

Address: Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay TQ2 5EZ

By Train: Torquay Station is a 15-minute walk along Torquay seafront. Exit the station, turn right onto Rathmore Road, continue to Tor Hill Road, then follow signs to the seafront and Princess Theatre. Direct trains from Exeter, Plymouth, and connections from London Paddington (change at Exeter or Newton Abbot).

By Bus: Multiple bus routes stop directly outside the theatre on Torbay Road. Stagecoach services 12, 22, and X46 serve the theatre from across Torbay and surrounding areas.

By Car: The theatre has no dedicated parking, but several car parks are nearby:

• Torre Abbey Car Park: The King’s Drive (3-minute walk)
• Beacon Quay Car Park: Beacon Hill (5-minute walk)
• Pavilion Car Park: Esplanade Road (8-minute walk)

Evening parking rates typically £3-6. Most car parks offer flat evening rates from 6pm.

Pre-Theatre Dining in Torquay

Torquay’s vibrant seafront offers excellent dining options within walking distance of Princess Theatre. Many restaurants offer pre-theatre menus perfect for performances starting at 7:30pm.

Close to the Theatre (5-minute walk or less):

• Ephesus Restaurant: Award-winning Turkish cuisine on Belgrave Road
• The Orange Tree Restaurant: Contemporary British dining on Parkhill Road
• Hanbury’s Famous Fish & Chips: Classic seaside dining on Princess Pier
• The Belgrave Beefeater: Family-friendly pub restaurant near the theatre

Torquay Harbour (10-minute walk):

• The Elephant Restaurant: Michelin-starred fine dining with pre-theatre options
• Brasserie at the Harbour: Seafood and steaks overlooking the harbour
• Sorrento at the Marina: Italian dining with harbour views

Book restaurants in advance, especially for Saturday night when Torquay is busiest. Aim to finish dining by 6:45pm to allow time to reach the theatre, collect tickets, and find seats comfortably before the 7:30pm curtain.

Seating at Princess Theatre

Princess Theatre offers excellent sightlines from most areas of the 1,500-seat auditorium. The theatre’s modern design ensures clear views of the stage.

Best Seats for Ballet:

• Stalls (Orchestra Level): Centre stalls rows E-P provide perfect views of the dancers’ footwork, formations, and facial expressions. Premium pricing but worth it for detail.
• Circle: Front circle centre seats offer superb elevated views of the full stage picture – excellent for appreciating corps de ballet formations, set designs, and the overall spectacle.
• Upper Circle: Centre seats offer good value with clear views, though you’re further from the stage. Ideal for families on a budget.

Accessibility

Princess Theatre is fully accessible with wheelchair spaces available in the Stalls and Circle levels. The theatre has accessible toilets, lifts to all levels, hearing enhancement systems, and assistance dogs are welcome. Contact the box office when booking to discuss specific requirements and ensure the best possible experience.

Making a Weekend of It in Torquay

With performances on Friday and Saturday evenings, many visitors combine Varna International Ballet with a weekend break in Torquay and the English Riviera. The area offers beautiful coastline, charming harbour, excellent hotels and restaurants, and numerous attractions all within easy reach.

Where to Stay

Close to the Theatre:

• The Grand Hotel: Historic seafront luxury, 5-minute walk
• Belgrave Sands Hotel: Boutique seafront hotel, opposite the theatre
• TLH Leisure Resort: Family-friendly resort complex near the seafront
• Premier Inn Torquay Seafront: Modern, affordable, harbour location

What Else to Do

Between performances or during a weekend break, explore Torquay and the English Riviera:

• Torquay Harbour: Charming marina with restaurants, cafés, and boat trips
• Torre Abbey: Historic abbey and gardens, 2 minutes from the theatre
• Kents Cavern: Prehistoric caves with guided tours
• Babbacombe Model Village: Enchanting miniature world with evening illuminations
• Paignton Zoo: Award-winning zoo 15 minutes away
• Coastal Walks: Stunning South West Coast Path walks in both directions
• Agatha Christie’s Greenway: The crime writer’s beloved holiday home (20 minutes)

Booking Your Tickets

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are the performances?

Friday’s Swan Lake runs approximately 2 hours 15 minutes with one interval. Saturday’s double bill features shortened versions of The Nutcracker and Cinderella, running approximately 2 hours 30 minutes with one interval between the two ballets.

Are the ballets suitable for children?

Yes! All three ballets are family-friendly and perfect for introducing children to ballet. The Nutcracker and Cinderella are ideal for children aged 5+, while Swan Lake’s more complex tragic story suits ages 7-8+. The Saturday double bill is particularly appealing for families wanting to experience two fairy-tale ballets in one evening.

Is there a live orchestra?

Yes! Every Varna International Ballet performance features a full live symphony orchestra performing Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev’s magnificent scores. This creates an incomparably rich and authentic ballet experience – not recorded music.

What makes the Saturday double bill special?

Saturday 14 March is the only performance on the entire UK tour featuring both The Nutcracker and Cinderella in one evening. It’s a unique opportunity to experience two beloved ballets with their full production values, live orchestra, and spectacular choreography in one spectacular evening.

Which performance should I attend?

Friday offers Swan Lake, ballet’s most iconic masterpiece with Tchaikovsky’s immortal score. Saturday presents The Nutcracker and Cinderella, two fairy-tale ballets perfect for families and those seeking uplifting stories. Better yet, attend both nights for all three classical masterpieces!

What should I wear?

Princess Theatre is relaxed – smart casual is perfect. Many people dress up for an evening out, but comfort is most important. Avoid shorts or flip-flops, but smart jeans and a nice top or dress are absolutely fine.

Can I take photos during the performance?

No. Photography is not permitted during performances to protect the dancers and ensure everyone enjoys the show without distraction. You’re welcome to take photos in the theatre foyer before the show and during the interval.

When should I arrive?

Arrive 30 minutes before curtain up to collect tickets, visit the bar, buy programmes, and find your seats comfortably. The theatre has a spacious foyer and bar area perfect for pre-show drinks. Latecomers will be admitted at a suitable break to avoid disturbing other audience members.

Last updated: January 2026. Varna International Ballet performs at Princess Theatre Torquay 13-14 March 2026. Check with the box office for current ticket availability.

More Ballet & Theatre Guides

• Varna International Ballet 2026: Complete UK Tour Guide
• Varna International Ballet Brighton: 29-31 January 2026
• Princess Theatre Torquay – What’s On
• More Torquay Theatre News & Reviews