Category: Ballet

  • Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell | Lowry, Salford

    Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell | Lowry, Salford

    Matthew Bourne’s ‘The Midnight Bell’ at Lowry, Salford, is a poignant exploration of yearning and connection in 1930s London, inspired by Patrick Hamilton. The production features dynamic choreography, atmospheric design, and haunting performances that capture the complexities of the characters’ lives, ultimately illustrating a world of longing and unfulfilled desires.

  • Ellen Kent’s La Bohème | Opera House, Manchester

    Ellen Kent’s La Bohème | Opera House, Manchester

    Ellen Kent’s La Bohème at Opera House, Manchester, presents Puccini’s poignant narrative of love and loss among 19th-century Parisian artists. While Viktoriia Melnyk’s Musetta shines, the production suffers from pacing issues. Despite static staging, strong vocal performances and a powerful score make it an engaging, though uneven, opera experience.

  • Mergaliyev’s Swan Lake | Opera House, Manchester

    Mergaliyev’s Swan Lake | Opera House, Manchester

    Mergaliyev Classical Ballet returns to Manchester in 2025 with their version of ‘Swan Lake,’ featuring a timeless score by Tchaikovsky. While the performances display strong talent, particularly from Nilay Tahiroğlu and Cristo Vivancos, the production sometimes lacks the necessary energy and finesse. Despite this, the appreciation for classical ballet endures.

  • Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake | The Lowry, Salford

    Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake | The Lowry, Salford

    Matthew Bourne’s reinvented Swan Lake, now marking its 29th year, replaces female swans with an all-male ensemble, infusing fresh life into Tchaikovsky’s score. This production explores themes of identity and repression, showcasing powerful choreography and stellar performances. Its universal themes and striking visuals redefine ballet, appealing to all audiences.

  • English National Ballet’s Giselle | The Palace Theatre, Manchester

    English National Ballet’s Giselle | The Palace Theatre, Manchester

    The English National Ballet’s production of Giselle offers a faithful retelling of the classic tale, blending dance and mime to create emotional depth. Julia Conway shines as Myrtha, while Erina Takahashi captivates as Giselle, showcasing remarkable technique. Simplicity in design enhances the storytelling, making it a memorable experience. The production…