Swan Lake

Synopsis

One of ballet's most famous works with some of its best known music. It is Siegfried's birthday and his mother gives him a crossbow and an ultimatum to get married! After the party and finding himself alone he goes hunting. The evil magician Rothbart (half man half bird) keeps beautiful women as swans on the lake - but by night they resume human form. Siegfried is bewitched by Odette, a Princess and one of the Swans. She explains their plight to Siegfried and says the spell can only be broken by someone who'll love her truly for ever. He swears to do so but Odette returns to being a swan as Rothbart's powers are so strong. Siegfried returns to the palace and his mother presents him with a string of women from whom to chose his bride - Rothbart arrives with his daughter Odile disguised as Odette and Siegfried agrees to marry her - only then realising his mistake as Odile reviles him for breaking his vow to Odette. Siegfried returns to the lake and begs Odette to forgive him - then fights Rothbart whom he kills - and the swans are released from the spell.

Our Review:

10 February 2010

Matthew Bourne’s infamous reworking of the classical ballet is now in its 15th year; attracting continuous worldwide acclaim, sold out houses and standing ovations. Sometimes such a reception can lead to a somewhat underwhelming theatrical experience, especially after so many years in a company’s repertoire; however, this production seems to go from strength to strength, gathering more fans, more acclaim, and most importantly more emotional punch.

The switch from a delicate female chorus to a strong, masculine ensemble is what this adaptation has become most famous for. However, there are many misconceptions as to what Bourne has created with the troupe. It is quite often that you may hear the ensemble referred to as ‘homo-erotic’, or a heavy emphasis placed upon some of the underlying gay themes.

However, far away from what one may picture from an all-male cast, is the fierce and domineering cast of men which bound across the stage with thr...

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Latest User Review

Emma - 12 February 2010:

Without doubt the best theatre performance I have ever seen. Every aspect of this show was spectacular. A really clever twist on a classic. The dancers were fantastic as was the set and costumes. I hope to get to see it again, before the end of the tour. ...

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