Prepare to plunge into the darkest depths of Swan Lake when Northern Ballet bring their absorbing adaptation of the most famous ballet in the world to Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday (April 26), writes Georgina Butler.
Lakeside loss, longing and love will combine to immerse audiences in artistic director David Nixon’s reimagining of the treasured ballet classic.
His interpretation of the tragic tale of romance and obsession is set in New England at the start of the twentieth century, a time of long lazy summers and refined grace.
Devised as a doomed psychological drama, Nixon’s production follows a young man named Anthony who is haunted by a childhood tragedy at the lakeside which resulted in the death of his beloved brother. Filled with agony and guilt; confused; and determined to face the fear and attraction of the lake, the adult Anthony looks to the water for answers.
When an ethereal swan-like creature emerges, Anthony experiences a joy and freedom he has not felt since he was a boy. Returning home, he finds himself caught in a love triangle with his two closest friends – Simon and Odilia – and yet, still, the mystical swan beckons. Which path will Anthony choose?
There is no definitive Swan Lake ballet as every choreographer has put their own unique spin on the story. Still, an element which remains absolutely essential is Tchaikovsky’s glorious and moving score - the maestro’s sublime music will be played live by Northern Ballet Sinfonia.
Renowned as superb storytellers, Northern Ballet’s dancers blend classical ballet technique, contemporary flair and dramatic presence to tell timeless tales. Whether reinventing old favourites or developing innovative new productions, the company takes pride in creating works which will appeal to as many people as possible.
As well as constantly seeking out new audiences, Northern Ballet is keen to give theatregoers inspiring insights into their productions and life as a company member.
Budding ballet dancers aged 11 to 16 are invited to take part in a youth ballet workshop at Milton Keynes Theatre on Saturday April 30which will teach ballet technique and creative movement inspired by Swan Lake. Suitable for all, regardless of prior dance experience, the workshop will be held on the stage in the main auditorium from 9.30am until 11am. Participants will then have the opportunity to observe company class from 11.30am until 12.45pm. Tickets for the workshop are £15 per person and available from the Box Office.
Northern Ballet’s Swan Lake promises to be a compelling modern rendering of a bucket list ballet so, whether you are a ballet fanatic or a newcomer to dance, don’t miss this chance to dive into the lake…
Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSZTTwOiYlM
Northern Ballet’s Swan Lake will glide into the new city for performances at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday April 26 until Saturday April 30.
Call the Milton Keynes Theatre Box Office on 0844 871 7652 or visit www.atgtickets.com/venues/milton-keynes-theatre to book.
For more dance and theatre news, features, interviews and reviews by Georgina, visit http://georginabutler.wordpress.com and follow her on Twitter @GeorginaLButler.
