The Red Shoes cast members Dianne Pilkington and James Doherty snuck away from the stage to celebrate the RSC’s new cocktail masterclasses, whilst making two new show-themed cocktails at the RSC Rooftop Restaurant last week. 

The pair are currently making their RSC debuts as Mariella and Bob, the social climbing couple who adopt the orphan Karen in The Red Shoes. This new version of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale by Nancy Harris runs in the Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon until Sunday 19 January 2025.

The themed cocktails are The Last Dance which includes raspberry and pink peppercorn vodka, sugar and lime and Red Swan, a mocktail with notes of pomegranate, grenadine, and lime. The drinks are available from the cocktail bar in the Rooftop Restaurant.  

Mixologists in-the-making can follow Dianne and James’ lead and experience a unique insight into the science of cocktail-making with the launch of the RSC’s new Cocktail Masterclasses, running weekly on Fridays from 8pm in the Rooftop Cocktail Bar. Set against the panoramic backdrop of Stratford-upon Avon’s historic skyline, visitors are invited to master classic recipes and work alongside the RSC’s expert bartenders, whilst enjoying a selection of hot and cold snacks available to order throughout the class.

Classes are priced at £25 per person.