A traditional tale told in a revolutionary way with strength and beautiful aggression. This is Swan Lake, but not as you may know it.
Matthew Bourne ruffled feathers 30 years ago when he daringly removed the dainty female swan dancers and replaced them with a bevy of muscular male swans in white feathered bottoms paired with bare, white-powdered chests. He transformed the classic love story between the Prince and the Swan Princess into a passionately complex dance of desire between the Prince and a male swan. This award-winning production literally took my breath away – I honestly felt like I forgot to breathe at times!
The set designs are bold yet simple, creating a hugely impactful visual experience. While projected graphics can sometimes be overdone and distracting in theatrical productions, here they’re used with perfect restraint and in such a majestic way that they enhance rather than overwhelm the performance.
I absolutely loved the staging, especially the creative use of the Prince’s bed. The entrance of the swans around and through it creates something simultaneously nightmarish yet incredibly enchanting. You won’t want to look away for even a moment as the inspired choices in choreography and costume captivate you throughout every second of the performance.
Stephen Murray is cast as the Prince, and it’s clear to see why. You may have seen him before in the role of Edward Scissorhands in another of Matthew Bourne’s celebrated creations, and you’ll definitely appreciate his raw and emotional portrayal of a young man trying to find love – not just romantically, but from his own mother as well.
There are wonderful moments of comedy expertly delivered by Katrina Lydon in her role as the girlfriend, but the greatest praise must go to Jackson Fisch, who dominates the stage with his stunning portrayal of the Swan. That said, each and every swan brings tremendous power and an incredible personification of these majestically intense creatures. The sounds of breathing and hissing fill the theatre, creating a world you can’t help but be drawn into.
You don’t truly know ballet until you’ve seen this award-winning show. This is so much more than just pirouettes and pliés – it’s a transcendent theatrical experience. I would go every night if I could!
Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake is at Wales Millennium Centre until Saturday 26th April. Tickets available at: wmc.org.uk
