Posts with the label dance
Showing posts with label dance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dance. Show all posts
Wednesday, 6 November 2024
Matthew Bourne’s Iconic Swan Lake Celebrates 30 Years with Extensive UK and Ireland Tour
Dance lovers, prepare to experience the power and artistry of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, as it embarks on an extraordinary UK and Ireland tour to celebrate its 30th anniversary. With 29 weeks of breathtaking performances across 19 venues, New Adventures once again brings Tchaikovsky’s classic to audiences with a thrilling revival that pushes dance theatre boundaries. Starting at Theatre Royal Plymouth on November 11, 2024, and leading into an 8-week holiday season at Sadler’s Wells, this tour marks New Adventures’ 22nd consecutive Christmas season at the iconic venue.
In 2025, the tour extends to Aberdeen, Sheffield, and Dublin, alongside previously announced cities including Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, ensuring audiences nationwide will have a chance to experience the groundbreaking production that forever changed dance theatre. Since premiering at Sadler’s Wells in 1995, Swan Lake has won over 30 international awards and become the most successful dance production of all time, celebrated for replacing the traditional female swan ensemble with a bold, male corps-de-ballet. The production’s success has reverberated globally, holding records for the longest-running full-length dance piece in both the West End and on Broadway, with Olivier and Tony Awards in categories from Best New Dance Production to Best Choreography.
This tour also welcomes a new generation of New Adventures talent making their debut in lead roles: Harrison Dowzell, Jackson Fisch, and Rory Macleod as The Swan/The Stranger; James Lovell, Leonardo McCorkindale, and Stephen Murray as The Prince; Nicole Kabera and Ashley Shaw as The Queen; Katrina Lyndon and Bryony Wood in double roles. The company’s stellar ensemble will elevate Lez Brotherston’s set and costume design and Paule Constable’s dynamic lighting, with video and projection by Duncan McLean. The dark, witty, and emotionally charged choreography, directed by Matthew Bourne, remains central to this genre-defining experience, blending wit and menace in equal parts.
As Official Partners, Fortnum & Mason and Edwardian Hotels bring their support to the tour, underscoring the cultural importance of this masterpiece. Join the excitement as Swan Lake embarks on its 30th-anniversary journey, celebrating dance theatre history with every performance.
photo credit: Johan Persson
Wednesday, 23 October 2024
Experience the Magic of Christmas with the Royal Ballet and Opera: Performances, Events, and Festive Delights at Covent Garden
This Christmas season, the Royal Ballet and Opera (RBO) invites you to celebrate with enchanting performances, festive food, curated gifts, and more at Covent Garden. From a dazzling tutu Christmas tree to magical shows like Cinderella and Hansel and Gretel, plus behind-the-scenes tours and family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
For the first time ever, the Royal Ballet and Opera is unveiling a stunning tutu Christmas tree in the Linbury Theatre Foyer starting Friday, November 22. Designed by Hugo Dalton and made from recycled tulle and borrowed tutus, this tree symbolises the elegance and creativity of the RBO. Complemented by a snow-themed décor, it sets the scene for a truly magical holiday experience.
Captivating Performances on Stage
This winter, the Royal Ballet brings the timeless fairytale of Cinderella to life, while the Royal Opera showcases a storybook production of Hansel and Gretel by Antony McDonald. For opera lovers, La bohème, set against the backdrop of Paris at Christmastime, will be conducted by Speranza Scappucci. The Linbury Theatre offers something unique with Ruination, an inventive twist on the Greek myth of Medea.
RBO continues its commitment to accessibility, offering performances designed for neurodiverse audiences and those with specific access needs. Notable events include relaxed performances of Cinderella and Hansel and Gretel.
Seasonal Treats and Festive Dining
Warm up with festive cocktails such as the Gingerbread House or a Down the Rabbit Hole mocktail at the Linbury Foyer Bar, or indulge in holiday-themed coffees and pastries at the RBO Café. For a truly decadent experience, the rooftop Piazza Restaurant is offering a special three-course Christmas menu from November 29, featuring traditional holiday dishes and mouthwatering desserts, all made with the finest local ingredients.
Exclusive Tours and Family-Friendly Events
The "Making of Cinderella" tour gives audiences a behind-the-scenes look at this beloved ballet, while children can enjoy the Cinderella Adventure Tour, a family-friendly exploration of the magical world of Cinderella. Don’t miss the Christmas Cracker Family Sunday on December 15, featuring sing-alongs, dance workshops, and a Cinderella Ball – perfect for creating holiday memories with the whole family.
Unique Gifts and Holiday Shopping
The RBO Shop offers an array of exclusive, beautifully crafted gifts, including festive decorations, jewelry, books, and more. Gift wrapping and delivery services make holiday shopping a breeze, whether in-store or online.
Royal Ballet and Opera at Home and in Cinemas
Can’t make it to Covent Garden? Enjoy the festive spirit from the comfort of your home with Royal Ballet and Opera Stream, featuring holiday favourites like The Nutcracker and Cinderella. Alternatively, catch a live screening at your local cinema, bringing the magic of ballet and opera straight to your doorstep.
Discover more and book your holiday experiences today at the RBO website.
photo credit: Tristram Kenton
Friday, 18 October 2024
Lord of the Dance- A Lifetime of Standing Ovations on Tour: A Footwork Feast with a Touch of Nostalgia
Lord of the Dance: A Lifetime of Standing Ovations
New Victoria Theatre
Lord of the Dance: A Lifetime of Standing Ovations is a unique production that showcases the unmatched talent of its dancers, but it also carries a sense of nostalgia that doesn’t quite hold up in today’s world. Originally created by Michael Flatley in 1996, the show is rooted in Irish mythology, featuring stunning footwork and energetic performances.
At its core, Lord of the Dance tells a mythic tale of good versus evil, with the "Lord" representing all that’s noble and heroic, while the "Dark Lord" embodies chaos and villainy. As these two archetypal male figures battle for dominance, female characters like "Saoirse" and "The Morrighan" find themselves relegated to fairly traditional roles: yearning for the hero or caught in the middle of the conflict. The story itself feels more like a backdrop to the dancing rather than a fully fleshed-out narrative, and the idea of macho men saving the day while women stand by feels a little tired in today’s cultural climate.
Visually, the show is a mixed bag. At times, the lighting, costumes, and staging can be quite effective, creating moments of real magic. However, there are other moments where the visuals feel random and disconnected, with no real cohesion in design or purpose. The costumes range from ethereal and elegant to overly flashy and out of place. The lighting effects, while dynamic, often seem to be trying to add drama where the narrative fails to deliver. These dated visual elements can distract from the otherwise incredible dance performances and make the production feel less polished than it once was.
That said, the live music elements, including violin interludes and occasional vocal performances, are a welcome addition. They break up the dance-heavy sequences in a way that adds depth and texture to the show. The mix of live music and recorded tracks is well-balanced, enhancing the energy of the performance while giving the dancers brief moments to reset.
The dancing itself is the undeniable highlight of the show. The sheer athleticism and precision of the cast are nothing short of remarkable. The iconic Irish step-dancing routines are performed with an intensity and flair that keeps the audience fully engaged, even when the story feels secondary. The choreography remains as impressive as ever, with the dancers’ footwork bringing an unmatched level of excitement and spectacle to the stage. Even if the visuals and plot don’t always hit the mark, the dancing alone is enough to make the show worth seeing.
Lord of the Dance is still a strong production for fans of Irish dance and music, but it feels very much like a product of its time. The plot is simple, predictable, and hinges on outdated gender roles, while the visual elements, although sometimes effective, lack coherence and can feel random or overdone. Yet despite these shortcomings, the live music and the incredible talent of the dancers keep the show afloat and make it worth a watch. It's a show that knows what it is and embraces it fully. It might not break new ground for those familiar with it, but it offers a nostalgic, enchanting escape for anyone craving the magic of Irish dance. For longtime fans, it’s a delightful revisit to a cherished classic, while for newer audiences, it serves as a beautiful introduction to the art form, even if it does show its age in places.
★★★
Reviewed on Friday 18th October by Olivia
Photo Credit:
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Friday, 11 November 2022
The Nutcracker, (Northern Ballet Tour) New Victoria Theatre | Review
The Nutcracker (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Thursday 10th November 2022 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Returning to the New Victoria Theatre, Woking after its triumphant run in 2018, Northern Ballet's The Nutcracker is just as magical as ever and a must see this festive season. This enchantingly magical show is brought to life by a stunningly talented cast and completely embodies joy and magic.
David Nixon's choreography makes this a spectacle of a show that fits perfectly on a touring stage whilst still providing a wow factor. Whilst it's not quite as intricate or dark as other productions, it's a real sweet treat that's perfect for all ages and thanks to the talented dancers every step is performed to perfection.
Not a moment of Tchaikovsky's glorious score is wasted in this show, from the overture we are introduced to a number of characters who scurry around the front of the stage preparing the grand house for its Christmas party. Small details are a real feature of this production, especially during Act One when there are multiple engagements and mini plot lines going on between characters. This attention to detail makes it really engaging and makes the whole Christmas party feel incredibly realistic- there's even Grandpa (Wesley Branch) drunkenly falling over!
We're soon introduced to Clara who is played wonderfully by Rachael Gillespie, who's beaming smile and childlike wonder exude from the stage and make the audience share in her joy. As her Nutcracker Prince, Harris Beattie is dashing to watch and he sparkles on stage like the glitter he was created with. The duo's Pax de Deux against the snowy backdrop is truly magical.
It in Act Two when a lot of the real magic happens, with a number of absolutely breathtaking moments. Perhaps the most magical being the Sugar Plum Fairy (Saeka Shirai) solo and Pax de Deux with her Cavalier (Jonathan Hanks), both of which are completely mesmerising. Despite the stage being filled with opulent sets, the audience can't help but watch only the dancers, and Saeka's solo especially, is a true showcase of ballet at its finest.
As Drosselmeyer Gavin McCaig is mystical and a dream to watch as his magical, glittering cape flows around him. Bruno Serraclara is witty as the Mouse King and each and every soloist is wonderful.
Aside from the dancing, this is a visually and aurally pleasing show. The Northern Ballet Sinfonia do complete justice to the glorious music, and under the baton of Jonathan Lo they sound utterly virtuosic. Charles Cusick Smith's set alongside Mark Jonathan's lighting are a design match made in heaven; perfectly balancing magic and spectacle, whilst also allowing dance to be the star of the show.
The Northern Ballet's production of The Nutcracker is everything you could want in the lead up to Christmas. Enchantment paired with stellar dancing means you'll have a captivating time, whether you're an adult or child.
photo credit: Emma Kauldhar
Tuesday, 14 April 2020
Keep Up Your Craft in Lockdown | Online Theatre Classes
We may be confined to our homes but thankfully the theatre community are coming together to create an abundance of online resources and classes to keep us entertained, fit and ready for our return to the real world... whenever that may be.
I've complied a list of some of these classes and activities which may peak your interest…
Musical Theatre
West End Bootcamp are providing Monday masterclasses at 7pm. These include choreographed routines, vocal classes performing arts masterclasses. Classes are £7.50 for 75 minutes and can be booked by emailing theteam@westendbookcamps.com (Insta: @westendbootcamp)
West End Bootcamp are providing Monday masterclasses at 7pm. These include choreographed routines, vocal classes performing arts masterclasses. Classes are £7.50 for 75 minutes and can be booked by emailing theteam@westendbookcamps.com (Insta: @westendbootcamp)
Pros From The Shows, directed by Layton Williams, are giving daily 30 minute workshops with 15 minute Q&As at the end. The workshops are run on a pay-what-you-can basis and have so far featured Marisha Wallace, Lucie Jones, Liam Mower and many more. To book, email info@prosfromtheshows.com (Insta: @prosfromtheshows)
London Singer Studio have free classes at 11am each day, focussing on all aspects of singing and vocal health. (Insta: @londonsingerstudio)
Kreate Academy are providing dance classes, challenges, live q and a’s and so much more. All their classes are free and there’s a whole variety to choose from. (Insta: @kreateacademyofperformingarts)
The Sing Space have a mixture of paid and free regular classes with industry professionals. These include breathing workshops and West End Fit classes. They also have free daily singing warm ups with West End vocal coach, Rachel Lynes, each morning at 10.30. Many of the classes take place on Zoom or Facebook at The Sing Space Singer’s Hub (Insta: @thesingspace)
MT Livestreamers is a group of musical theatre students who are teaching a variety of Instagram live classes, from tap to relaxation, MT and Bollywood. (Insta: @mt_livestreamers)
Live Stream Arts Fitness are providing a vast timetable of fitness and MT classes which are all free. Most take place on Instagram live, with some on YouTube, Facebook and Zoom. (Insta: @livestreamartsfitness)
Lockdown Live London hosts a daily 6pm workout with a West End star; these have include the Queens of Six, Kelly Mathieson, Sarah O Connor and Jonathan Bailey. They take place on instagram live and stay up for 24 hours. (@lockdownlivelondon)
Broadway Weekends at Home is a hub for all things MT and all the classes are free. All classes are taught by Broadway and West End Performers and there are ones for all ages. (Facebook: Broadway Weekends at Home)
Dance
Magnetic Movement are offering a whole timetable of weekly classes from industry professionals. From beginners tap to pilates and advanced jazz there's something for everyone. The classes take part live on Facebook and Instagram and there are also tutorials on the Instagram page. (Insta: @mageneticmovement_1)
LaDuca Shoes have a host of classes and Q&As, including musical theatre jazz, contemporary and ballet. (Insta: @laducashoesuk)
Sharpe Academy have daily instagram live routines, fitness classes and audition workshops with industry professionals. These have included a Six routine with Vicki Manser and a ballet barre masterclass with Bradley Shelver. (Insta: @sharpeacademy)
MXM have dance classes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday night and some children’s morning classes. They are 1 hour technique and routine classes which take place on instagram. (Insta: @mxmasterclass)
CLI Studios have regular live class events with renowned choreographers. Most classes are Intermediate/Advanced and are mainly Hip-Hop and contemporary. For any fans of The Ellen Show, this Sunday (19th) features a class with Twitch! (Insta: @clistudios)
Debbie Allen (Fame, Greys Anatomy) is holding weekly dance classes on Wednesdays and Saturdays (Insta: @therealdebbieallen) as well as offering Zoom classes through her dance academy, more information is available on www.debbieallendanceacademy.com
Capezio are offering a big timetable of instagram classes, with Body Conditioning, Locking and Tapping and Commercial just some of what’s available. (Insta: @capezio)
Ballet Specific
Tierney Heap is a current member of the Royal Ballet and a Bloch influencer, she is holding Instagram live classes on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10.30. (Insta: @tierneyheap)
Sander Blommaert is a former Royal Ballet dancer and is holding classes at 11am each morning on Instagram live. (Insta: @sanderblommaert)
Charise Logan (Renouf) is running barre focussed classes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 10.30. (Insta: @charise_renouf_)
Sarah Du-Feu is running a whopping 18 Instagram live classes a week suitable for all ages with a mixture of basic and intermediate classes. (Insta: @theballetcoach)
Russian Pointe Brand are running classes for all levels on their instagram, including flexibility and pilates classes. (Insta: @russianpointebrand)
Q&As/Masterclasses
Beyond the Boards is a new theatre podcast which is holding weekly Q&As with performers about their advice for thriving and surviving during lockdown. Previous guests have included Arun Blair-Mangat, Richard Carson and Genesis Lynea. (Insta: @beyondtheboardspod)
SingEasy have launched the SingEasy Diaries where they chats to special guests each Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm. Guests include Jodie Steele, Amy Hart and Jai McDowall. (Insta: @singeasywestend)
London Theatre Direct are hosting Q&As, takeovers, bake-alongs and more, with stars of the West End in their Stagey Lockdown. (Instagram: @londontheatredirect)
The Showbiz Clinic run by dancer and choreographer Xena Gusthart is currently doing a series called Pivot Through a Pandemic which is £5 a session and takes place Monday's at 10am. There are also free one to one's available as well as live instagram Q&As. (Insta: @theshowbizclinic)
Stage One have begun a series on online webinars with industry professionals. They take place on Zoom and participants have the chance to ask questions as well as hear stories and advice. (Insta: @stageonenewprod)
There are so many more classes than this but these are just some of the ones on my radar. If you know of anymore, please let me know and I’ll keep this list as updated and comprehensive as possible.
Stay safe and stay stagey!
Olivia x
Thursday, 12 March 2020
Identity, Turbine Theatre | Review
Identity
Turbine Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 11th March 2020 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Described as a "controversial and captivating masterpiece", Identity endeavours to showcase "society's negative perceptions" and highlight that being true to yourself and owning your insecurities is a way to thrive. With the constant pressures perpetually hurled at us via social media, as well as those around us, it's always important to be reminded that we're not alone in our struggles. This show certainly does that, and it's exciting and innovative in its approach.
Caitlin Elizabeth Taylor opens the piece by battling with a Polaroid camera, continually reaching and then drawing herself away from it. It's from this moment that her battle between hiding and owning her identity begins. Having composed some of the music and spoken word, it's clear from Caitlin's fierce performance that this piece is special to her. She boldly throws herself around and strikes a great balance between aggressive stress and introspective peace.
Whilst Caitlin does an excellent job of leading the show, it's during the ensemble (made up of Callum Sterling, Tinovimbanashe Sibanda, Marina Climent and Luke Cartwright) moments when it really comes to life. The interpretive and super sharp dance numbers are effective and emotive, even if they are a little aloof at times. Visually the way they pulse and leap around stage is exciting, but the use of sound adds another layer. It isn't just the movement that's synchronised but every breath feels as though it's coming from one entity. Equally, this unison makes the moments where the ensemble fall out, even more effective. Christopher Tendai has done a great job of incorporating contemporary dance, with Afro beats to create something which looks and feels stirring.
As well as Caitlin's music, the motion is also accompanied by the incredibly soulful sounds of Sam.G (aka Shekinah Mcfarlane). Her beautifully expressive music is evocative by itself, but when combined with the choreography, a really strong narrative is created.
Over an hour, we are taken on a journey of discovery. This piece finds a solid middle-ground between in your face expression and pared back simplicity. This is in part, thanks to Charlotte McAdam's lighting which is effective throughout; especially during striking strobe light moments where Caitlin's character contorts against the black backdrop.
Thanks to the killer cast and evident love for the work which is engrained in every moment, this is a great show to experience purely to start up a new conversation about being you. A very promising production, Identity is sure to fire up anyone who watches it and would be a great piece to showcase in schools as a subtle reminder to be a little kinder.
Friday, 6 March 2020
Swan Lake, Royal Opera House | Review
Swan Lake
Royal Opera House
Reviewed on Thursday 5th March 2020 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Liam Scarlett's Swan Lake is impressively grand, impeccably danced and a joy to experience. From a dark, misty lakeside to a glittering palace, this is a ballet that balances storytelling and spectacle perfectly. The entire company dance exquisitely, with Marianela Nuñez and Vadim Muntagirov completely shining in the lead roles.
With John Macfarlane's lush designs, this is a highly confident production which keeps pace throughout and allows the dancing to shine. Based in the 1890s the sets and costumes are sumptuous and evocative. Even the park outside the palace gates feels magical. The more abstract lake is ragged and bleak but provides a perfect, (almost) blank canvas to showcase the many swans. The palace is astounding, with a sweeping staircase, marble walls, golden decoration and a crimson curtain. It's a gasp worthy set that really does stun. Macfarlane's costumes are structured but wonderfully airy. The white tutu's of the swans are delicate and almost snow-like as they pepper the stage. Alongside them, David Finn's lighting keeps everything gleaming and makes sure not a step is missed by the enraptured audience.
Scarlett has kept Petipa and Ivanov's original choreography as well as seamlessly adding his own sequences. The new Act One Waltz is divine, with Marcelino Sambé's Benno bringing excellent lighthearted and sprightly moments. Act Three features a series of national dances, with Itziar Mendizabal's sultry Spanish princess really shining. The newly updated Neapolitan Dance feels modern and uplifting thanks to the addition of tambourines which are deftly used.
The Act Four pas de deux is one of the most magical ballet moments I have ever witnessed. The gentleness with which Siegfried and Odette interact is mesmirising and crushing to watch; and the almost broken choreography from Odette is immensely effective and makes the lack of reunion at the end even more devastating.
Nuñez's dancing is as floaty and measured as you could dream of. The control with which every step is taken is a testament to the hours of work which have clearly been put into perfecting her craft. Extremely evident in the seemingly endless series of fouettés which really astound. Even in the seductive Black Swan moments, there is a delicacy to her dancing which draws you in and manages to make the vast Opera House feel intimate. Muntagirov is the prince of dreams as he combines romance and aristocratic grace. His elevations and soft as anything landings are magnificent to watch and his entire performance is a treat.
This is a hugely moving production which must be the definitive version of Swan Lake. The stellar cast and orchestra under the baton of Koen Kessels provide treats for all the senses and a truly magical night out. Everything really is beautiful at the ballet.
Wednesday, 5 February 2020
Matthew Bourne's The Red Shoes (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
The Red Shoes (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 4th February 2020 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Originally a dark fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, The Red Shoes was adapted for the big screen by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger in 1948. It follows a dance company as they tour the world; and the story of two men's obsession with Victoria Page, a dancer who longs to be a star and becomes possessed by her red ballet shoes.
With multiple locations, sometimes indistinguishable characters and intricate meta-narratives, The Red Shoes isn't the easiest of ballets to follow, but Matthew Bourne's production somehow provides a perfect introduction to the art form and takes you on a journey that you don't want to end, as the continuous flow and incredible emotion keep you on the edge of your seat throughout.
What really elevates this show is the way the story forms a distinction between creating and performing art. We see the process of the dressers and choreographers bringing a vision to life in a structured and unified way; whilst, the performers are intensely frenzied and intense. These opposites come together to create a beautifully enchanting show. Just like the real world of theatre, what we see on stage is the graceful swan above the water, but what we miss is the underwater kicking of intense rehearsals, quick changes and personal drama. If anything, The Red Shoes is a fantastic reminder and celebration of the hard work, creativity and energy that goes into putting on a great piece of theatre.
Before the show even begins, magic is created thanks to Lez Brotherson's exceptional design. A luxe red curtain drapes the stage and reveals the varying worlds of The Red Shoes. From monochrome moments to full colour clubs and beaches, every moment feel luxurious and perfectly designed. The costumes are timely and tailored to perfection, with a divine attention to detail that is understated enough to be effective, but not in your face. When Victoria first dances in her red ballet shoes, she wears a flawless costume that highlights the red and welcomes her as a prima. During act two however, the mental and physical toils she faces are mirrored through the demise of her costume which is shredded and faded. These details are effective beyond belief and make this whole production feel superior.
Bourne's company are outstanding. Ashley Shaw is of course, technically wonderful as Victoria, but it's her steely drive and intensity to succeed that make her so enjoyable to watch; especially when contrasted so excellently against her compassion and vulnerability. As Victoria's lover/musician/muse, Harrison Dowzell is pure joy to watch. The way he flies around the stage, and shows his love for music with a genuine sense of revelry can't help but bring a smile to your face.
Victoria's dances with both men are incredibly striking and Reece Causton as Boris Lermontov is utterly shocking. His obsessive and sharp but quiet demeanour is terrifying to witness but completely absorbing. This is a production where you often find yourself holding your breath as it rarely lets you escape from it's magical grip. The end of act one is one of the most spectacularly effective moments in theatre and really should be experienced.
The entire New Adventures company prove once again why they're so revered in this glorious looking and exceptionally assured production. The Red Shoes is a must see tale of passion, envy and tragedy.
The Red Shoes plays at the New Victoria Theatre until 8th March before continuing its tour
Bourne's company are outstanding. Ashley Shaw is of course, technically wonderful as Victoria, but it's her steely drive and intensity to succeed that make her so enjoyable to watch; especially when contrasted so excellently against her compassion and vulnerability. As Victoria's lover/musician/muse, Harrison Dowzell is pure joy to watch. The way he flies around the stage, and shows his love for music with a genuine sense of revelry can't help but bring a smile to your face.
Victoria's dances with both men are incredibly striking and Reece Causton as Boris Lermontov is utterly shocking. His obsessive and sharp but quiet demeanour is terrifying to witness but completely absorbing. This is a production where you often find yourself holding your breath as it rarely lets you escape from it's magical grip. The end of act one is one of the most spectacularly effective moments in theatre and really should be experienced.
The entire New Adventures company prove once again why they're so revered in this glorious looking and exceptionally assured production. The Red Shoes is a must see tale of passion, envy and tragedy.
The Red Shoes plays at the New Victoria Theatre until 8th March before continuing its tour
Monday, 3 February 2020
Stephanie Billers on starring in Matthew Bourne's The Red Shoes
Matthew Bourne's New Adventures company continually wows audiences around the world with their intricate, unique and entertaining ballets. Currently touring the UK after a stint at Sadler's Wells is The Red Shoes. Having previously starred in Swan Lake and Cinderella for New Adventures, we sat down with Stephanie Billers a dancer from the company as she told us all about herself and her roles within the ballet.
The Red Shoes is a tale of obsession, possession and one girl's dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page lives to dance but her ambitions become a battleground between the two men who inspire her passion.
Set to the achingly romantic music of golden-age Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann, The Red Shoes is orchestrated by Terry Davis and played by the New Adventures Orchestra, with cinematic designs by Lez Brotherson, lighting by Paule Constable, sound by Paul Groothuis and projection from Duncan McLean.
Watch Stephanie discuss her characters in the ballet and get a sneak peek backstage here
Get to know more about Stephanie and her life outside of dance here
The Red Shoes next plays at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking from 4th-8th March and then continues it's tour around the UK
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