I feel incredibly lucky to be sat in the audience of Matthew Bourne’s current UK tour, Cinderella. I adore Bourne’s work, having studied many as a teacher of Dance and Head of Performing Arts, passing on my passion and knowledge to students. I love the intricacy of detail in his choreography and his artistic choice and vision, the way he challenges stereotypes and always strives to break down barriers.
Cinderella is absolutely no exception. The whole production is a spectacle. The New Adventures Company have the ability to completely captivate you with their performance, from the telling of the narrative that runs throughout, to the beautiful choreography and passion behind their every move.
The story itself is that of the classic Cinderella, with a modern twist. The prince becomes a traumatised, yet suave, RAF pilot [Will Bozier] who is brought into Cinderella’s life by her ‘fairy godmother’, The Angel [Liam Mower]. Ashley Shaw plays our lead character. In one particular scene she dances with a tailored mannequin, which is choreographic genius and just oh-so clever in so many different ways. Living with her dysfunctional step-family, who bring comedy gold to the narrative, she has the perfect combination of vulnerable, with a helping of rebellion.
The set is incredible and a real feast for the eyes. The ballroom scene at Cafe de Paris is captivating, with its elaborate set and slick choreography. The jovialness of the action, combined with the harsh reality of the war, striking fear and terror, leave me with a bit of a lump in my throat. Prokofiev’s music has been adapted into a surround sound score [made with an 82 piece orchestra no less!] with added effects and trickery. It certainly packs a punch and only enhances the experience of this wonderful production.
The classic tale of Cinderella really has been given a twist, yet the romance and vulnerability stays at the heart of it all. Bourne does like to remind us though, that with every dusting of hopes and dreams, is a harsh and often darker reality. 5/5
Review written by Stacie Pollard.
Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella was shown from Monday 21st until Saturday 26th May 2018 at the Marlowe Theatre. For more information on the production, visit here…
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