I know that the word ‘ballet’ doesn’t usually stir up too much excitement in the hearts of the masses, but I do know that the words ‘Matthew Bourne’ strike a chord with some. I’ve seen quite a few Matthew Bourne productions, Edward Scissorhands, Cinderella and Nutcracker! to name a few, and each has taken a new spin on a well loved classic and actually made ballet something that everyone can get excited about.With this in mind, I couldn’t wait to go and see Matthew Bourne’s interpretation of Sleeping Beauty at The Grand Opera House, and it definitely didn’t disappoint.The story begins in 1890, and is initially told through the use of large storybook letters being projected onto the curtain – a good way to both set the scene and get around the lack of dialogue in ballet.
The ballet then begins in the Victorian era and sees a little baby Aurora getting up to mischief.The baby is a puppet operated by members of the company disguised in black. This little puppet undoubtedly steals the show and its antics have the audience in stitches. We then see fairies dancing and casting spells and the evil Carabosse comes to Aurora’s bedside to seek revenge for her parents actions.Tchaikovsky’s original score is magnificent; it’s grand, it’s dramatic and it’s positively rich to listen to. Such a sumptuous score can only be accompanied by the finest costumes and set, and yet again Bourne delivers. The costumes are imaginative and detailed, and the set and backdrop is exactly the same. From the giant glowing moon in the background, to the conveyor belt on stage, to the forest of lights dangling from the ceiling, Sleeping Beauty is a delight to watch, like a fairytale in real life unravelling before you.
The story then leaves this gothic world of fairies and vampires and takes us to the present day for the second act and third acts.Aside from being eerie and magnificent, Sleeping Beauty (as with all Matthew Bourne’s efforts) has a touch of humour and doesn’t take itself too seriously. An endearing quality which ingratiates the audience.It really was a sight to see andI would definitely recommend going to see any of Matthew Bourne’s work, even if you’re not a fan of more traditional ballet.
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