Showing posts sorted by date for query ballet. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query ballet. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Wednesday, 18 February 2026
Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes Review- A Dazzling, Cinematic Ballet Masterpiece
Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes Review
A Perfect Balance of Cinematic Spectacle and Theatrical Magic
There are some productions that entertain, and then there are those that completely transport you. Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes is firmly the latter. This exquisite ballet is a breathtaking fusion of storytelling, design, and choreography that feels both gloriously cinematic and intimately theatrical. It is a production that understands the power of visual narrative and trusts its audience to meet it halfway.
Inspired by the Powell and Pressburger film and Hans Christian Andersen’s dark fairy tale, The Red Shoes tells the story of Victoria Page, a young dancer torn between love and ambition. Under the watchful eye of the obsessive impresario Boris Lermontov, Victoria rises to stardom, but her heart is divided between her devotion to dance and her love for composer Julian Craster. As ambition, jealousy, and desire collide, the red shoes become a symbol of artistic obsession and sacrifice.
Act one carefully lays the groundwork. Bourne allows the narrative space to breathe, establishing character dynamics and emotional stakes with precision. It feels almost filmic in structure, with seamless transitions and sharply drawn relationships. The storytelling is rich but never heavy handed. Through nuanced physicality and expression, the cast communicates layers of longing, rivalry, and ambition without uttering a single word.
The ensemble scenes are meticulously staged. Corps de ballet formations are clean and intentional, often reflecting hierarchical tensions within the company. There are soaring legato lines matched with sharp musicality that keep the momentum alive and make for a truly exciting piece of theatre. Even in quieter passages, the dancers maintain a strong dramatic focus.
Act two, at just 35 minutes, is where the choreography truly takes flight. The emotional intensity deepens and the movement vocabulary expands into soaring pas de deux and sweeping ensemble work. Bourne’s choreography blends classical ballet technique with contemporary theatricality. The lifts feel weightless yet charged with narrative tension. Extensions are held just long enough to heighten drama. Turns are not simply virtuosic but emotionally motivated.
The central ballet sequence within the story is mesmerising. Here, the red shoes themselves seem to drive the choreography forward. The dancers move with urgency and abandon, their lines elongated and expressive. It is thrilling to watch technique used in service of storytelling rather than display alone.
The cast delivers extraordinary performances. The portrayal of Victoria Page is filled with vulnerability and steel in equal measure by Cordelia Braithwaite, who carries emotional weight in every moment. Andy Monaghan as Boris Lermontov commands the stage with icy restraint, conveying obsession through subtle shifts in posture and gaze. Julian Craster is portrayed with romantic sincerity by Dominic North, his partnering gentle yet assured.
What makes this production particularly remarkable is how strongly the performers act as well as dance. Ballet can sometimes feel emotionally distant to newcomers, yet here every performer inhabits their role fully, with facial expressions, breath, and timing become as vital as footwork. This strong acting and characterisation really helps the audience follow the story and get swept up in the drama of it. The humour woven throughout the production is a welcome surprise; with moments of wit and theatrical flair that lighten the tone without undermining the drama.
The soaring score, orchestrated by Terry Davies, elevates the production to another level. It swells and recedes in perfect harmony with the choreography, amplifying emotional crescendos and intimate exchanges. The music feels expansive and cinematic, yet perfectly suited to the stage.
The set and costume design are nothing short of brilliant. Thanks to Lez Brotherston's design, the stage transforms completely between scenes, shifting from rehearsal rooms to lavish theatre interiors with fluid precision. Partnered with Paule Constable's brilliant lighting design, the production is a multi-layered feast.
Costumes subtly chart character evolution. Small changes in silhouette, colour, and texture communicate shifts in status and emotional state. Victoria’s costumes in particular reflect her journey from hopeful ingénue to tormented star; and of course, the iconic red shoes themselves glow with symbolic power.
One of the greatest strengths of ballet is its refusal to spoon feed the audience, and this production embraces that fully. The story is clear yet layered. Viewers are invited to interpret glances, gestures, and motifs. It asks you to engage actively rather than passively consume. That sense of intellectual and emotional participation makes the experience deeply rewarding and I'd encourage people to take the step into the ballet world if they haven't previously.
Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes is theatrical magic at its finest. It balances cinematic grandeur with the immediacy of live performance. It delivers technical excellence, emotional depth, humour, and visual spectacle in equal measure.
This is ballet that feels alive, urgent, and utterly spellbinding- a triumph which reminds us why dance remains one of the most powerful storytelling forms on stage.
★★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 17th February 2026 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Johan Persson
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Thursday, 6 November 2025
Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man Returns for a UK Tour in 2026 | New Adventures
A New Adventures Classic Returns to the Stage
New Adventures has announced the return of Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man, one of the most iconic dance thrillers in British theatre. The multi-award-winning production will embark on an exciting UK tour in 2026, opening at Curve, Leicester on 15 June 2026, before visiting 16 venues nationwide, including a five-week summer run at Sadler’s Wells in London.
Loosely inspired by Bizet’s opera Carmen, The Car Man transforms the classic 19th-century story into a gripping 1950s American garage-diner setting, where passions, jealousy, and betrayal collide. Set in the fictional town of Harmony, USA, this sultry and cinematic reimagining is filled with energy, tension, and unforgettable dance sequences.
The production features a powerful score by Terry Davies and Rodion Shchedrin’s Carmen Suite, after Bizet’s original music. The creative team includes lighting design by Chris Davey, sound by Paul Groothuis, and set design by Lez Brotherston, bringing Bourne’s signature storytelling to life.
A Dance Thriller That Redefined British Theatre
Matthew Bourne said:
“I never dreamed when we created this show at the beginning of the new millennium that it would still be around, thrilling audiences, 25 years later! Inspired by vintage movie film noir classics, it holds a unique and special place in the New Adventures repertory as the only piece based on an opera and possibly the first ballet to feature a bi-sexual anti-hero! I’m particularly happy that we are taking the show ‘on the road’ again after more than 10 years and I can’t wait to re-visit the hot and steamy town of Harmony USA – the best place to be next Summer!”
First performed in 2000, The Car Man won the Evening Standard Award for Musical Event of the Year and the Los Angeles Drama Critics Award for Best Choreography. It was most recently revived in 2022 at the Royal Albert Hall for the venue’s 150th anniversary, earning rave reviews and nightly standing ovations.
This will be the first full UK tour of The Car Man since 2015, marking a major moment for fans of Matthew Bourne, New Adventures, and contemporary dance theatre.
With its darkly sensual storytelling, electrifying choreography, and powerful score, The Car Man continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of what modern dance and theatre can achieve.
photo credit: Johan Persson
Monday, 13 October 2025
Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana Returns with Full Cast for Vibrant UK Tour
The magic of Christmas is set to return with Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana, as Norwich Theatre and Valid Productions announce the full cast for the acclaimed production. Directed and choreographed by the legendary Carlos Acosta CBE, this vibrant Cuban reimagining of the festive classic is preparing to enchant audiences once again.
Featuring the world-class dancers of Acosta Danza, the cast includes Amisaday Naara, Daniela Urgelles, Adria Diaz, and many more celebrated Cuban performers. The production also welcomes a group of talented guest artists and junior dancers from the Acosta Dance Centre, ensuring a dazzling showcase of energy and artistry.
This Nutcracker takes audiences on a journey where ballet meets the rhythm of Havana, with a newly commissioned Cuban arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score by composer Pepe Gavilondo. With colourful visuals, Nina Dunn’s spectacular projection design, and Angelo Alberto’s vibrant costumes, it’s a feast for the senses and a true celebration of Cuban culture.
Carlos Acosta said:
“Watching my dancers blend classical ballet with Cuban folk and contemporary dance has been a dream come true. This show embodies the joy and warmth of Cuba at Christmas.”
Produced by Norwich Theatre and Valid Productions, Nutcracker in Havana is set to be one of the most exciting theatre events of the season. The ballet embarks on its second UK tour from Fri 31 Oct 2025 opening at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre for three performances.
Read more London theatre stories and dance features here.
Sunday, 28 September 2025
Swan Lake Review 2025: A Young Dancer’s Take on Matthew Bourne’s Iconic Ballet
Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
I didn’t really know what to expect when I went to see Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, but it totally blew me away. First of all, the swans were played by men, which was surprising at first, but actually made the story feel way more powerful and intense. The dancing was amazing – super sharp and full of emotion. You could really tell what the characters were feeling, even though there were no words.
I do ballet myself, so watching this was honestly really inspiring. It made me want to work harder in class and try new ways of expressing emotion through dance. The way the dancers moved was so strong and full of feeling – it wasn’t just about being perfect, it was about telling a story.
The swan costumes looked wild and kind of scary, but in a cool way. Their design was so free and the way the feathers moved as they jumped and spun was incredible.
The music by Tchaikovsky was beautiful and dramatic, and the way it matched the dancing gave me goosebumps. I found the dream scenes confusing and strange but I could still follow it. My favourite part was the mini play because it reflected the story in such a funny and amusing way and the reactions from the pink lady was so funny . I especially loved when she dropped the purse and the queen rolls her eyes at her.
Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake wasn’t like any ballet I’ve seen before, but I loved it. It was emotional, creative, and totally unforgettable.
★★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 23rd September by Freya Myers
Photo Credit: Johan Persson
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Sunday, 10 November 2024
THEATRE NEWS ROUNDUP 3rd November- 9th November 2024
Happy Sunday! Here's another week of arts news, including concert headliners, a Broadway transfer, contests and lots more. As always, you can find the full stories by clicking the headline...
Noah Kahan Headlines BST Hyde Park 2025 with Special Guest Gracie Abrams
The duo headline BST Hyde Park 2025 for an epic folk-pop experience on July 4th 2025.
Bradley Jaden’s ‘Recorded Live in London’ Album Set for Release
The album captures the magic of his June 2024 Cadogan Hall concert, featuring iconic musical theatre performances and star-studded duets.
Bradley Jaden’s ‘Recorded Live in London’ Album Set for Release
The album captures the magic of his June 2024 Cadogan Hall concert, featuring iconic musical theatre performances and star-studded duets.
Elektra, the electrifying West End revival of Sophokles’s timeless tragedy, directed by Tony-winning visionary Daniel Fish, features an all star cast.
The 2024 Best New Song Prize Concert will feature an incredible cast in a one-night showcase of emerging musical theatre talent at The Other Palace in London.
Experience the wit and charm of The Pirates of Penzance as the production returns to the ENO for a strictly limited season at the London Coliseum.
Experience the acclaimed adaptation of The Lonely Londoners at Kiln Theatre this January, where Selvon’s evocative story of the Windrush generation in 1950s London brings to life the challenges, dreams, and community spirit of Caribbean migrants
The ballet returns for its 30th anniversary tour, bringing an iconic revival to audiences across the UK and Ireland with 29 weeks of performances in 19 cities.
The smash-hit musical brings the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties to London’s West End in spring 2024 at the historic London Coliseum.
Nominations are now open for the WhatsOnStage Awards, where theatre fans can vote for their favourite shows and performers, culminating in a live event at the London Palladium on February 9, 2025.
London’s new Capital Theatre will open in autumn 2025, at Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush.
Boublil and Schönberg’s iconic musical is set for a fresh UK tour, opening October 2025 with a reimagined production led by Michael Harrison and Cameron Mackintosh.
Join Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas: A Festive Science Adventure in London’s West End
Experience a holiday science adventure full of fun, facts, and festive cheer, live this December.
That's it for another week! Come back next Sunday for your weekly dose of theatrical stories and in the mean time we'll see you on socials. Stay stagey!
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
Sunday, 27 October 2024
THEATRE NEWS ROUNDUP 20th-26th October 2024
This week in the theatre world saw anniversaries, cast announcements, world premieres and pantomime news....
The highlight of the event was a powerful rendition of The Circle of Life, featuring five Rafikis from productions across Europe, sung in multiple languages.
The UK Theatre Awards 2024 celebrated excellence across British theatre, with Leeds Playhouse’s Oliver! leading the way, winning Best Musical Production and Best Performance in a Musical. Jenny Sealey OBE received the Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre Award, and Polka Theatre was named UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre.
Celebrate Back to the Future Day with a special cameo appearance in the hit musical, and look forward to new international productions and exclusive backstage content.
Historalia Productions will premiere Anne Boleyn the Musical in August 2025, telling the Queen’s powerful story at her childhood home.
Anne-Marie Duff leads a star-studded cast in the revival of Lillian Hellman’s The Little Foxes at the Young Vic, directed by Lyndsey Turner.
Stalled is a powerful new musical premiering at King’s Head Theatre, exploring the intersecting lives of diverse characters with soul-stirring melodies and a commitment to inclusivity.
Matthew Bourne's award-winning show returns, bringing its poignant tales of love and longing on a nationwide UK tour.
The classic holiday musical White Christmas will play at The Mill at Sonning with a heartwarming story, featuring an all-star cast and timeless Irving Berlin hits like "Blue Skies" and the beloved title song.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical London premiere reveals its star-studded cast, bringing Rick Riordan's beloved characters to life in an epic musical adventure this November.
Celebrate the holidays with the Royal Ballet and Opera at Covent Garden, featuring stunning performances, festive events, delicious dining, and unique gift shopping.
The hit musical comedy embarks on a UK and Ireland tour in 2025, bringing the beloved TV show to life with a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud original score.
Starring Drag Race UK’s Ella Vaday as one of the Ugly Stepsisters and Maddy Erzan-Essien as Cinderella, the production promises a magical mix of comedy, puppetry, and audience participation.
Louis McCartney reprises his award-winning role, marking his highly anticipated Broadway debut in 2025.
See you next Sunday for another theatre news recap! In the meantime, keep an eye on our socials for live news and updates.
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
Wednesday, 16 October 2024
Go Live Theatre Projects Launches Online Charity Auction Featuring Rare Theatre Memorabilia
Go Live Theatre Projects, the London-based theatre education charity, has launched an exciting online charity auction packed with rare and signed theatre memorabilia. The auction aims to raise funds to support the charity’s mission of making theatre accessible to young people and their families, especially those facing financial, social, or physical barriers.
Bidders can expect exclusive items from some of the West End's biggest productions, including signed posters and programmes from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Hadestown, SIX, Les Misérables, Frozen, Back To The Future, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, and Wicked. There are also signed t-shirts and hoodies from theatre stars like Michael Ball, Sheridan Smith, Derek Jacobi, Bonnie Langford, and Arlene Phillips. One of the rarest items is a pair of ballet shoes used in The Phantom of the Opera.
To view and bid on these incredible pieces, visit Go Live Theatre's auction page.
If you'd like to see some items in person, visit the Go Live Theatre Projects stand at MusicalCon on October 19-20 at the London Excel Centre.
Go Live Theatre Projects is committed to providing vulnerable and marginalised young people with access to theatre. Donations to support their educational work can be made here.
Tuesday, 8 October 2024
Toyah Willcox Joins NOW That’s What I Call A Musical as a Special Guest
Exciting news for music and theatre lovers! Punk legend and Strictly Come Dancing 2024 contestant Toyah Willcox has been announced as a special guest star in NOW That’s What I Call A Musical. Toyah will appear in Edinburgh, bringing her iconic energy to this hit-packed show. Additionally, pop sensation Sonia has expanded her 2025 tour dates, adding performances in Manchester and Glasgow to her list of venues.
NOW That’s What I Call A Musical is a brand-new British musical written by award-winning comedian Pippa Evans and directed by Strictly's own Craig Revel Horwood. The show kicked off its major UK and Ireland tour in September 2024 at Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre and has been delighting audiences ever since. Celebrating 40 years of the beloved NOW That’s What I Call Music compilations, the musical is filled with timeless hits from artists like Blondie, Tears For Fears, Eurythmics, and Spandau Ballet. It’s a nostalgic celebration of the biggest chart-toppers, taking audiences on a musical journey back to the 80s and 90s.
Toyah Willcox, known for her legendary hits like It’s a Mystery and I Want to Be Free, is a force in music, TV, and theatre. With over 13 Top 40 singles, 25 albums, and a successful acting career, she’s a perfect fit for this feel-good musical. Her theatre credits include roles in The Rocky Horror Show, Calamity Jane, and Cabaret. Her addition to the cast brings even more star power to an already exciting production.
Toyah will join an array of guest stars in the show, each performing the songs that made them NOW icons. Throughout the tour, audiences will also see performances by Sinitta, Sonia, Carol Decker, and Jay Osmond in various cities. These special guests, along with the talented core cast, will be belting out the hits that have defined decades of pop music.
Set in Birmingham, the musical follows two school friends, Gemma and April, as they navigate life from their teenage years in 1989, dreaming about Rick Astley, to their dreaded school reunion in 2009. The story blends humour, drama, and a lot of '80s nostalgia as it explores friendship, love, and all that hairspray!
For those who grew up with NOW That’s What I Call Music as the soundtrack to their lives, this musical is a must-see, packed with feel-good vibes and sing-along moments. Make sure to check your local listings to catch Toyah Willcox and the rest of the cast when the show comes to a theatre near you. Whether you’re reliving your favourite hits or discovering them for the first time, NOW That’s What I Call A Musical promises a fun and unforgettable night out!
Wednesday, 15 February 2023
Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty (Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 14th February 2023
★★★★
In this spookily spellbinding production, Matthew Bourne entices us into a darkly fantastical world full of fairies and vampires. Bourne's signature spin of surrealism is combined with Tchaikovsky's timeless score to create a twisted ballet that is engaging, if at times lacking in soaring emotion.
Whilst Sleeping Beauty is a much-loved fairytale, if the Disney version is your only reference point, you'll be quite surprised at what takes place on stage. This modern interpretation of an originally medieval tale, toes the line between reality and fantasy and really leans in to the Gothic elements to create a ballet with distinct acts that span centuries and allow for some very interesting moments.
From the outset Lez Brotherston's set takes us to palace which feels eerily perfect and things go from there. Alongside Paule Constable's lighting, the whole show always feels like it's teetering on being a dream (or a nightmare) and you never quite know what's real and what's not.
The show is a real frenzy of drama, with various characters on their own personal journeys, and at times there's a slight lack of fluidity but on the other hand, this chaotic energy does add to the dark, frantic vibes.
As always, Bourne has assembled a stellar cast of dancers who perform both stunning solos and precise ensemble numbers. Katrina Lyndon is stunning in her youthful portrayal of the cursed Princess Aurora, whilst her suitor, Leo, The Royal Gamekeeper is played gloriously by Stephen Murray. The duo work especially well together and really shine in their romantic moments. Paris Fitzpatrick is suitably menacing as Caradoc and is a sort of omnipresent demon overseeing the ballet. Stephanie Billers also gives an emotively strong performance as Queen Eleanor and Daisy May Kemp is also a standout in her role of Miss Maddox.
In the metaverse of Matthew Bourne, this show completes his trio of twisted fairytales, and there's even somewhat of an ode to Swan Lake with the Act Two fairy dance. Whilst it's not the most moving of pieces, it's certainly got some outstanding moments and is a change from the usual takes on a classic story. For something uniquely dark, Sleeping Beauty is well worth a visit.
photo credit: Johan Persson
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday, 31 January 2023
Cast for Cake- The Marie Antoinette Playlist Announced
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The brand-new musical, come gig, come ballet is from some of the most exciting figures in modern British Theatre, with an Olivier Award winning creative team including Olivier Winner’s Drew McOnie(In the Heights; Jesus Chris Superstar) and Morgan Lloyd Malcolm (Emilia - The Globe)
Cake will be venturing on a UK tour from 18 March 2023, starting at the MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton.
Casting will include, fresh from her magical run as Mary Poppins on the West End, Zizi Strallen (she/her) stars as Marie Antoinette, with Renée Lamb (she/her), Catherine of Aragon from the original cast of SIX, starring as Jeanne.
The cast is completed by B Terry (they/them) as Nicole, Travis Ross (he/him) as Cardinal with Ope Sowande (he/him) and Megan Bryony Gibbs (she/her) as the ensemble and Lukas Hunt (he/him) and Amie Hibbert (she/her) as swings.
Cake combines music with 18th century France to retell a story that sparked a revolution. When Marie Antoinette married King Louis, her reputation was already tarnished by gossip. But when she is implicated in a crime to defraud the crown jewellers of a diamond necklace, it is not just her reputation at stake, but the monarchy and France itself.
Originally commissioned by Paul Taylor-Mills (Heathers & In the Heights), Cake promises to re-define our expectations of what a musical can be.
Paul has said, “We are delighted to be partnering with 5 of the leading regional theatres to present a development production of this brilliant new show. I first commissioned this at The Other Palace five years ago and am delighted to be working with some of the best theatre makers in Drew McOnie, Morgan Lloyd Malcolm, Tasha Taylor Johnson and Jack McManus. The show started life at our first MTFestUK and it’s great to see it come to production.”
Cake is written by Morgan Lloyd Malcom directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie with songs by Tasha Taylor Johnson and Jack McManus, casting by Will Burton CDG and based on an idea byPaul Taylor-Mills.
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