Creating a Rapunzel for Everyone : Inclusivity and the Hairy Tale

When we began creating Rapunzel: A Hairytale, we knew we wanted this story to feel open, welcoming and meaningful for every child and every family who visits Tobacco Factory Theatres. Fairytales shape how we see the world. When we retell them, we have the chance to stretch them wider, to make sure more children can recognise themselves within the magic.

To help us do that, we invited Representation Matters to support our creative process. Their insight has been invaluable in helping us ensure that Rapunzel: A Hairytale speaks to a wide range of lived experiences, and that nothing in the storytelling accidentally reinforces outdated or exclusive ideas.

Hair as Identity, Magic and Meaning

Hair is central to any Rapunzel story, but it also holds deep cultural meaning. For many communities, especially Black and Global Majority families, hair can represent identity, tradition, pride and power. That’s why we’ve paid close attention to how we talk about Rapunzel’s extraordinary hair in the script and on stage.

With Representation Matters’ support, we’ve shifted away from language that suggests a single hair type and towards descriptions that celebrate texture, movement and individuality. Rapunzel’s magic doesn’t come from having “perfect” hair. It comes from her strength, her heritage, her imagination — from who she is.

A Story of Transformation, Not Loss

There is a moment in the story where Rapunzel’s hair is cut, and while this is a traditional element of the tale, it can carry different resonance for different families. Rather than presenting this as a moment of loss, our creative team has shaped it as one of transformation and renewal. It becomes part of Rapunzel stepping into her courage and growing into herself, not something taken from her.

Building a World Where Every Child Feels Seen

We’ve also been thoughtful about how characters look and are presented on stage. One key character in the story is written as mixed-heritage, and we wanted to ensure she is portrayed with depth, humanity and nuance — never defined solely by her appearance.

We’re also mindful of the world around her. Ensuring a range of identities are represented positively helps the story feel balanced and welcoming. No single character carries the burden of “difference”. In this world, difference is simply part of the fabric of the story.

Small Adjustments, Lasting Impact

Many of the changes we’ve made are subtle, but their impact is important. They help ensure that every child in the audience can see themselves reflected in the magic of this Hairytale. That they feel valued, included and invited into the story.

We are incredibly proud of the care our creative team has taken in shaping a Rapunzel for everyone. We hope you feel that care woven through every moment of the show.