17 October 2014 (released)
19 October 2014
Ever since its debut in London in 1995, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake has been a huge success. It was first staged at London’s Sadler’s Wells where it was originally expected to run for a mere two weeks. Although many were not convinced it would make it out of its infancy due to its non-traditional nature, the show is now in its nineteenth year. Opening at the ethereal Regent Theatre in Melbourne, the performance was flawless and well received by the audience.
The story revolves around a young prince (Christopher Marney), who is confined by the conventions of royal formalities and his mother The Queen (Stephanie Billers) who withholds affection. The opening scene, "The Prince's Bedroom" quickly draws the audience into the prince's world and is well choreographed and staged.
Marney, the Prince, is set up with a goofy, non-traditional girl (Anjali Mehra), who adds comic relief to the performance. Mehra is hilarious , especially in "Opera House Scene" where she breaks away from royal etiquette, laughing loudly and mimicking the performers. The scene is highly exaggerated and works in well with the narrative. Furious by his girlfriends conduct the prince succumbs to drinking alone in his quarters, much to the disgust of the Queen.
Overall the choreography by Matthew Bourne is quirky, yet brilliant. Hailed as the most popular and successful choreographer, Bourne has thrown off the shackles of conventional choreography with his uninhibited direction. Gone are the traditional maiden swans and are replaced by menacing males swans. The swans effortlessly move across the stage, effectively conveying the story through dance. In a bold move Bourne's swans can be heard hissing, again breaking with traditional codes.
Leading Swan (Jonathan Ollivier), is brooding yet tender and his breathtaking performance was faultless. The ensemble were spectacular and a special mention goes out to the set and costume designer Lez Brotherston for his striking set and stunning costumes.
Although Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake breaks the mould, the performance is enchanting and must-see for any Swan Lake fans.