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★★★★★
A couple of years ago I watched Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures perform for the first time and was mesmerised by the visuals, artistic quality and precision of their work. Ever since, I’ve been a huge fan of the theatre company, looking forward to their arrivals in Kent each year and keeping an eye on touring schedules. This week New Adventures are at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury with Matthew Bourne’s ‘Swan Lake’ during its 30th anniversary year. The production made waves on its debut, largely down to the female corps-de-ballet being replaced by a group of male dancers, and multiple decades on, this convention-breaking show continues to generate impact around the globe. The revival is described as ‘The Next Generation’ and it is so exciting that audiences get to experience this momentous production in 2025.
Initial thoughts
This was my first time watching ‘Swan Lake’ on stage, so I can’t comment on the differences between this version of the show and alternative interpretations, but as a standalone piece of dance theatre, it is magnificent. Set to Tchaikovsky’s renowned score, Matthew Bourne has fused classical ballet with various other dance styles (including flamenco) to create an effortless display of dance and storytelling. It centres on a Prince (Stephen Murray) who is struggling both mentally and emotionally and has very little support from his distant mother ‘The Queen’ (Nicole Kabera). The story follows life in the Royal Household, with the swans being the son’s escapism.
Exceptional storytelling through dance
It goes without saying that the choreography is beautiful, but for me it is the narrative which makes this production so impressive. New Adventures are incredibly strong at acting through dance and the storyline is always exceptionally easy to follow. It is commendable how much evolving facial expressions and subtle changes in body language can tell this complex story, which is full of heart, passion and humour. Bryony Wood specifically is fantastic in their role as The Girlfriend, capturing the spirit of the larger-than-life personality who the Royal Family disapprove of. I couldn’t help but laugh at the down to earth persona, which is a brilliant contrast to the regal formality on stage.
Visual design elements
Lez Brotherston’s set design is opulent, bringing to life the extravagant Royal parties, the Swank Bar and the Prince’s bedchamber. The set pieces play with scale and toy with imagination, really leaning into the ethereal themes of the piece. When combined with Paule Constable’s striking lighting design, there are some wonderful bold shadows on stage, which add even more depth to the visuals.
Dance theatre at its best
This is an exquisite and relevant piece of dance theatre, which is so trailblazing that you can hardly believe it first premiered 30 years ago. The sheer strength and power of the male swans is a marvel to watch; with each dancer bringing so much energy and conviction to the ensemble formations. For fans of dance, any New Adventures production is a must-see, but ‘Swan Lake’ specifically features some very powerful themes that will really resonate in 2025. The show is at the Marlowe Theatre until Saturday 3rd May, with the last few tickets available on the theatre’s website.
Thanks for reading my blog today.
Love Kat xxxx
*My ticket for ‘Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake’ was gifted in exchange for an unbiased review.
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