Challenging gender stereotypes through a transformation of a fairy tale

The aim of this study is to explore ECEC-teachers' attitudes toward gender through a transformation of the classic fairy tale 'The Princesses and The Pea'. The stereotypes presented in fairy tales can be limiting for children today because they can reinforce traditional ideals of femininity and masculinity. The Norwegian ensemble Dybwikdans challenge gender stereotypes in 'The Princess and The Pea'. In the performance, the princess acts strong and brave, the king feminine and vain. Findings that are based on interviews indicate that the teachers are not concerned with gender stereotypes in fairy tales; they have a set of stereotyped expectations about how females and males are portrayed, but a transformation of an old story provides an opportunity to explore and challenge traditional gender roles.