Ballet Shoes is a beloved children’s novel written by British author Noel Streatfeild, first published in 1936.
The story follows the lives of three orphan girls, Pauline, Petrova, and Posy, who are taken in by an eccentric explorer, Great-Uncle Matthew, and raised by his niece, Sylvia.
The girls attend a performing arts school and eventually discover their passions in life while navigating the challenges of growing up.
Ballet Shoes has captivated readers for decades, and in 2007, a film adaptation directed by Sandra Goldbacher was released, introducing the charming tale to a new generation of fans.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of Ballet Shoes, exploring the book, movie, and beyond.
From summaries to curiosities, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this timeless classic.
Brief overview of the book by Noel Streatfeild
Ballet Shoes is a coming-of-age story that revolves around the lives of the three Fossil sisters – Pauline, Petrova, and Posy – who are adopted by their eccentric Great-Uncle Matthew, also known as “Gum”.
When Gum disappears on an expedition, the girls are left in the care of his niece, Sylvia, and their devoted nurse, Nana.
To make ends meet, Sylvia decides to take in boarders and opens a performing arts school called the Children’s Academy of Dancing and Stage Training.
The Fossil sisters enroll in the academy, and their journey towards self-discovery begins. Pauline finds her calling in acting, Petrova in mechanics and aviation, and Posy in ballet.
The girls face various challenges and learn the importance of perseverance and determination in achieving their dreams.
Ballet Shoes movie summary
The 2007 film adaptation of Ballet Shoes, directed by Sandra Goldbacher, remains true to the essence of Noel Streatfeild’s novel while adding its own unique touch.
The movie stars Emma Watson as Pauline, Yasmin Paige as Petrova, and Lucy Boynton as Posy.
The film follows the Fossil sisters as they attend the Children’s Academy of Dancing and Stage Training, pursuing their individual passions and navigating the ups and downs of life.
The movie captures the girls’ growth and development, not only as artists but also as individuals. It highlights the importance of family, friendship, and determination in overcoming obstacles and achieving one’s dreams.
With its heartfelt storytelling and stellar performances, the Ballet Shoes film is a must-watch for fans of the novel and newcomers alike.
Parent guide to Ballet Shoes
Ballet Shoes is a family-friendly story that appeals to both children and adults.
The book and movie are suitable for kids aged 8 and above, as they deal with themes of self-discovery, friendship, and perseverance.
Parents can rest assured that Ballet Shoes contains no explicit content, making it a perfect choice for family movie nights or bedtime reading.
The story also serves as a conversation starter for discussing important life lessons, such as the value of hard work, the importance of family and friendship, and the power of following one’s dreams.
By engaging in these discussions, parents can help their children gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages presented in Ballet Shoes.
When and where Ballet Shoes takes place
Ballet Shoes is set in London, England, during the 1930s.
The story primarily takes place at the Fossil sisters’ home, which doubles as the Children’s Academy of Dancing and Stage Training.
This historical setting provides a charming backdrop for the girls’ adventures and adds an element of nostalgia to the story.
The 1930s were a time of significant change and development in the world of performing arts, and Ballet Shoes captures this era beautifully.
The story offers a glimpse into the lives of aspiring young artists and the challenges they faced in pursuing their dreams during this time.
Film locations and travel guide for Ballet Shoes fans
The 2007 film adaptation of Ballet Shoes was shot in various locations across London, England.
Fans of the movie can visit these sites to experience the world of Ballet Shoes first-hand. Some of the notable film locations include:
- Kenwood House: This beautiful Georgian villa, located in Hampstead Heath, served as the exterior of the Fossil sisters’ home and the Children’s Academy of Dancing and Stage Training.
- Westminster Reference Library: The library’s stunning interior was used as the setting for Pauline’s audition for the prestigious acting academy.
- Wilton’s Music Hall: This historic venue, located in East London, was where the Fossil sisters performed their first stage production.
- London Transport Museum: The museum’s vintage vehicles and exhibits were used to recreate the 1930s London streets, adding authenticity to the film’s setting.
By visiting these locations, fans can immerse themselves in the world of Ballet Shoes and gain a deeper appreciation for the story and its setting.
Who’s who: characters and cast
The characters in Ballet Shoes are brought to life by a talented cast, who perfectly capture the spirit and charm of Noel Streatfeild’s novel.
Here’s a rundown of the main characters and the actors who portrayed them in the 2007 film adaptation:
- Pauline Fossil (Emma Watson): The eldest Fossil sister, Pauline is a talented actress with a strong determination to succeed.
- Petrova Fossil (Yasmin Paige): The middle Fossil sister, Petrova is passionate about mechanics and aviation.
- Posy Fossil (Lucy Boynton): The youngest Fossil sister, Posy is a gifted ballerina with a natural talent for dance.
- Sylvia Brown (Emilia Fox): The Fossil sisters’ guardian and Gum’s niece, Sylvia is a kind-hearted woman who does her best to provide for the girls.
- Nana (Victoria Wood): The Fossil sisters’ devoted nurse, Nana, is fiercely loyal and protective of the girls, often serving as a source of comfort and guidance.
- Great-Uncle Matthew (Richard Griffiths): The girls’ eccentric and absent-minded great-uncle, Matthew, is a renowned explorer who takes the Fossil sisters under his wing.
- Theodore “Theo” Dane (Marc Warren): A kind-hearted and talented dancer, Theo serves as a mentor and friend to the Fossil sisters.
- Dr. Jakes (Eileen Atkins): The strict and no-nonsense headmistress of the Children’s Academy of Dancing and Stage Training, Dr. Jakes pushes the girls to their limits in pursuit of excellence.
The cast of Ballet Shoes delivers outstanding performances, bringing the characters to life with authenticity and heart.
Memorable quotes from Ballet Shoes
Ballet Shoes is filled with poignant and memorable quotes that capture the essence of the story’s themes and messages. Here are some of the most iconic lines from the book and movie:
- “When you think of the things that are worrying you, you’re not so happy, are you?” – Nana
- “I don’t want to be like anybody else. I want to be me.” – Petrova
“We three Fossils vow to try and put our names in history books because it’s our very own.” – Posy - “It’s not what you say, it’s what you do that counts.” – Great-Uncle Matthew
- “You have to learn to dance with your heart. You have to be inspired by the music and let your body follow.” – Theo
These quotes serve as reminders of the importance of individuality, determination, and following one’s passions.
The soundtrack by Kevin Sargent
The Ballet Shoes soundtrack, composed by Kevin Sargent, perfectly captures the whimsical and charming nature of the story.
The soundtrack features a mix of orchestral pieces, playful melodies, and classical-inspired compositions, adding depth and emotion to the film’s scenes.
Some of the standout tracks from the Ballet Shoes soundtrack include “The Fossil Girls’ Theme,” “The Academy Waltz,” and “Posy’s Ballet.”
The soundtrack is a must-listen for fans of the movie and anyone who appreciates beautiful and evocative music.
Curiosities and trivia about Ballet Shoes
Ballet Shoes has a rich history and a dedicated fan base, which has led to various curiosities and pieces of trivia surrounding the story.
Here are a few interesting facts about Ballet Shoes:
- Noel Streatfeild based the Fossil sisters on her own childhood experiences growing up in a family of five daughters.
- The character of Theo Dane was inspired by the real-life dancer and choreographer Antony Tudor.
- Emma Watson, who portrays Pauline in the Ballet Shoes film, was a fan of the book growing up and cites it as one of her favorite childhood stories.
- The film’s director, Sandra Goldbacher, also directed the critically acclaimed miniseries “The Hour” and the film “Me Without You.”
These curiosities add to the richness and depth of the Ballet Shoes story, making it all the more captivating and intriguing.
Tips for cosplay and dressing like the characters
Ballet Shoes offers a wealth of inspiration for cosplay enthusiasts and fans of the story who want to dress up like their favorite characters.
Here are some tips for creating your own Ballet Shoes-inspired looks:
- For Pauline‘s iconic 1930s-inspired outfits, look for vintage dresses, blouses, and skirts with bold patterns and bright colors. Accessorize with costume jewelry and a pair of classic T-strap heels.
- To channel Petrova‘s love of mechanics and aviation, opt for a more tomboyish look with overalls, boots, and a leather bomber jacket.
- For Posy‘s ballerina look, a simple leotard and tutu paired with ballet slippers and a bun hairstyle will do the trick.
By incorporating these elements into your cosplay or everyday fashion, you can pay homage to the Ballet Shoes story and its beloved characters.
Noel Streatfeild: biography and notable works
Noel Streatfeild was a British author best known for her children’s books, including Ballet Shoes, Skating Shoes, and Tennis Shoes.
Streatfeild was born in Sussex, England, in 1895 and began writing at a young age. She published her first novel, “The Whicharts,” in 1931, followed by Ballet Shoes in 1936.
Streatfeild’s books are known for their relatable characters, strong storytelling, and themes of self-discovery and perseverance. In addition to her children’s books, Streatfeild also wrote adult fiction under the pen name Susan Scarlett.
Streatfeild passed away in 1986 but left behind a legacy of beloved works that continue to inspire and captivate readers of all ages.
Ballet Shoes ending explained
The ending of Ballet Shoes offers a satisfying conclusion to the Fossil sisters’ story, tying up loose ends while leaving room for future possibilities.
After the success of their stage production, the Fossil sisters are able to pay off their debts and secure a bright future for themselves and their family.
Pauline goes on to pursue her acting career, Petrova continues to explore her love of mechanics and aviation, and Posy becomes a renowned ballerina.
The ending of Ballet Shoes highlights the importance of hard work, determination, and perseverance in achieving one’s dreams.
It also emphasizes the power of family and friendship in providing support and encouragement along the way.
Possibilities of a remake, sequel, or spin-off
Given the enduring popularity of Ballet Shoes, it’s no surprise that fans have been clamoring for more.
While there are currently no plans for a remake, sequel, or spin-off of the story, the potential for future adaptations is certainly there.
A sequel to Ballet Shoes, titled “The Fossil Sisters,” was written by Streatfeild but was never published.
In recent years, there have been talks of adapting the sequel for the screen, though no concrete plans have been announced.
Regardless of whether a sequel or spin-off is in the works, the enduring popularity of Ballet Shoes ensures that the story will continue to capture the hearts and imaginations of readers and viewers for years to come.
Other media directed by Sandra Goldbacher
Sandra Goldbacher, the director of the Ballet Shoes film, has a rich and diverse filmography, with a focus on character-driven stories and female protagonists.
Here are a few other notable works directed by Goldbacher:
- “The Hour” (2011-2012): This critically acclaimed miniseries follows the lives of a group of journalists working on a news program in 1950s London.
- “Me Without You” (2001): This coming-of-age story follows two best friends, Holly and Marina, as they navigate the ups and downs of life and friendship in 1970s London.
- “The Governess” (1998): This period drama stars Minnie Driver as a young Jewish woman who takes a job as a governess for a wealthy family in Scotland.
Goldbacher’s work is marked by its strong female characters, nuanced storytelling, and attention to detail.
Similar media to Ballet Shoes: books, movies, and TV shows
If you’re a fan of Ballet Shoes and are looking for similar media to enjoy, here are a few recommendations:
- “A Little Princess” by Frances Hodgson Burnett: This classic children’s novel follows the story of Sara Crewe, a young girl who is sent to a boarding school in London.
- “Matilda” by Roald Dahl: This beloved children’s book tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a precocious young girl with extraordinary abilities.
- “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott: This classic novel follows the lives of the four March sisters as they navigate the challenges of growing up during the Civil War era.
- “Anne of Green Gables” by L.M. Montgomery: This beloved children’s novel tells the story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and adventurous young girl who is adopted by a family in rural Canada.
These works share similar themes and messages with Ballet Shoes, making them perfect choices for fans of the story.
Ballet Shoes book club discussion questions
If you’re reading Ballet Shoes with a book club or discussion group, here are a few questions to spark conversation:
- Which Fossil sister do you relate to the most and why?
- What themes or messages did you take away from the story?
- How does the historical setting of the story add to its charm and appeal?
- What role does family and friendship play in the story, and how do the characters’ relationships with each other evolve over time?
- What impact do you think Ballet Shoes has had on the world of children’s literature?
Video games inspired by Ballet Shoes
While there are currently no video games directly inspired by Ballet Shoes, there are plenty of games that share similar themes and messages. Here are a few recommendations:
- “Journey“: This beautiful and immersive game follows the journey of a nameless robed figure as they traverse a vast and mysterious landscape.
- “Undertale“: This critically acclaimed indie game offers a unique take on the RPG genre, emphasizing player choice and moral dilemmas.
- “Child of Light“: This whimsical and visually stunning game follows the adventures of Aurora, a young girl on a quest to save her kingdom.
These games all share similar themes of self-discovery, perseverance, and the power of friendship and family.
Conclusion and lasting impact of Ballet Shoes
Ballet Shoes has left a lasting impression on generations of readers and viewers.
With its heartwarming story and engaging characters, it continues to inspire fans to pursue their dreams and cherish the bonds of family and friendship.
The story’s themes of determination, resilience, and creativity resonate with audiences and have solidified its place as a beloved classic.
The novel’s success has led to numerous adaptations, sequels, and spin-offs, as well as inspiring other works by both Noel Streatfeild and other authors.
The 2007 film adaptation by Sandra Goldbacher introduced the story to a new generation, and the timeless tale continues to captivate audiences.
Whether you are a long-time fan of Ballet Shoes or have just discovered the story, this comprehensive guide offers a deeper look into the world of the Fossil sisters and their journey through life and the world of performing arts.
From the book and movie summaries to the curiosities surrounding its creation, Ballet Shoes continues to enchant and inspire readers and viewers of all ages.
