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Swan Lake by English National Ballet has swooped into Manchester with a production that truly takes your breath away.
Even those with no care for ballet, will have heard of Swan Lake. A simple story of love, deceit and heartbreak. The Shakespeare of the dance world.
Don’t forget to read my review of Singing in the Rain
The story in a nutshell
Princess Odette is kidnapped and cursed by a wicked sorcerer to live life as a swan. Meanwhile, Prince Siegfried has come of age and is enjoying his lavish celebrations.
During a hunting trip he is captivated by the beauty of Odette and falls in love. On return to the Palace, he is commanded to choose a bride and is fooled into thinking another is Odette.
This ends in a dramatic finale where we find out if true love transcends all.
Visually, it is magnificent
And I don’t use that word lightly. It’s like a Rococo painting come to life. The intricate Palace, delicate courtyard and moody Lake are a real treat. The costumes are plush and rich in beautiful detail. The whole ballet looks expensive. It’s dripping in luxury.
Of course, the scene we’re all waiting for arrives and the audience reacts with an audible gasp. The thick fog suspended on stage against the moon lit sky where dozens of swans carefully rise is perfection.
Talking of swans, these ballet dancers are athletes
The level of fitness, discipline and finesse required is truly admirable.
The ladies are graceful and so light on their feet you can barely hear the pitter patter of their pointed shoes. Whereas the men seem to leap and bound several metres into the air. The collection of swans float in perfect unison and their bird like movements really do capture this fantasy world.
Leading lady, Fernanda Oliveira (Odette), is addictive to watch with a spin count in double figures. Leading man, Ken Saruhashi (Prince Siegfried), showcases power and precision that is jaw dropping. A powerful pair they do make.
Three top tips
1. There are two short pauses, one in the first act and one in second, as well as a proper interval in the middle.
2. Sit slightly further back to get the best view of this enormous cast and the extravagant set.
3. Buy a programme for a handy summary of each scene to fully understand the narrative.
And the piece de resistance?
A live orchestra playing the unforgettable score of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake. A real masterpiece of music which conveys this story with so much feeling and emotion. You will, without a doubt, recognise some of the iconic tunes. And those you don’t, well don’t worry, you will still be swept away into sweet symphony.
Swan Lake is simply stunning. You should flock there as fast as you can.
Playing at Palace Theatre in Manchester until Saturday 8 October 2022.
IMAGE CREDITS: Laurent Liotardo and Ash