The way Tim Burton weaves tales and crafts characters is distinct, and Matthew Bourne is the perfect artist to translate them seamlessly into the world of dance.
Based on the 1990’s iconic film, which features the enchantingly captivating music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, Matthew Bourne and his New Adventures Company leads us through an emotional tale of an eccentric father’s unfinished creation. With a haunting appearance and scissors for hands,Edward enters a 1950’s pastel and bubble gum community where he attempts to win the hearts of those around him.
Sir Matthew Bourne is well known for is innovative remakes and interpretations. A highlight being his strong and masculine version of Swan Lake in which he famously switched the Swan Prince’s love interest to a male Swan.
Only Bourne could choreograph the unique creations from the mind of Burton. Starting with rigid robotic movements from Edward which melt over time into stunningly poetic ballet duets whilst surrounded by big musical theatre style numbers highlighting each individual characters personalities in clever and often humorous ways.
Designed by the award-winning Lez Brotherston, the costumes do not disappoint. From dancing topiary bushes to the widely recognised appearance of Edward himself. Not to mention the hands of blades that create such strong silhouettes during cinematic scenes emphasised with stunning projections and special effects.
If you worry about a lack of words and relying purely on movement and music to embrace every element of this beautiful American romance fantasy story then allow me to remind you how little Edward speaks during the movie itself. This story is originally one told by strange awkward expressions and Burton style theatrical sets and this show has very little difference. The visual feast, that Bourne and his team have created, will only leave you wanting more in a good way.
None of this performance would have worked without the incredibly talented and flawless cast of dancers with special mentions going to Liam Mower, who embodied the character of Edward, originally brought to life by Johnny Depp, whilst Ashley Shaw brought a softness and a strong reminder of how beautiful ballet really is. These two combined really brought the magic and enchantment to life.
This show is utterly captivating from start to finish with times where you could easily forget you aren’t watching the scene on screen. Of all the standing ovations I have witnessed in this theatre, never have I heard the auditorium so loudly full of emotion and appreciation.
This is an hour and fifty five minutes that you will feel grateful to have experienced and with an age guidance of eight plus ( no under twos), it is a wonderful moment to share as a family.
Edward Scissorhands is at Wales Millennium Centre until March 23rd and you can book tickets here:
