Review: Chinese Acrobatic Swan Lake
Venue: The Lowry
Date Reviewed: 31st July, 2008
Having seen countless versions of Swan Lake, for me, nothing has quite lived up to Matthew Bourne’s genre-busting vision of this feathery classic.
Guangdong Acrobatic Troupe Of China’s fast and loose, visual treat certainly leaves you feeling like you have not seen it all before.
Purists may balk at some of the new additions, but by adding acrobats, jugglers, jumping jacks, human wheels, uni-cyclists and rollerskaters means that there is never a dull moment. It is not a show without flaws, though. There are so many short, sharp scene changes that unsurprisingly stage hands cannot keep up, leading to a few technical hitches on opening night.
Also, by delivering a concept, proving that China has indeed got talent means that any lulls in the narrative seem to last forever, due to the break-neck pace that has come before. But, like true professionals, the talented cast are completely unfazed, delivering exemplary performances, defying gravity and a sense of logic, leaving you scratching your head, thinking “How did they they do that?”
Wu Zhengdan’s swan-princess stands on a man’s head on tip toe, perfectly poised, never once looking in any danger. This is one of many gob-smacking moments which is literally breathtaking to watch. Another highlight features men climbing poles like monkeys and a hat-swapping section which is superbly synchronised by a team of ladies in red.
Many members of the audience loved the acrobatic young boy who jumps like one of Pixar’s Incredibles; this cast could play super-heroes without the aid of C.G.I, as they seem to have elasticated limbs.
There is plenty of humour to stop this beautifully realised show resembling an extended Royal Variety Performance act. I loved the nods and winks to the original classic tale, as it does remind you of Bourne and his affection for ballet as an art form.
Sure, there are too many scene changes and to be honest, a few short pointless elements which do nothing to drive the narrative, should be cut. But, this mixture of Monkey- Journey Into The West, Matthew Bourne and Cirque Du Solei (minus the awful clowns!) has enough jaw-dropping moments to cover any visible cracks with ease.
The audience on the night I attended (including, Germaine Greer) gave the show a rousing reception, and deservedly so, as Chinese Acrobatic Swan Lake leaves you walking on air.
Dazzling stuff!
-Glenn Meads