Introducing one of our volunteer dance reviewers, Esme Rowe:
Hi, my name is Esme Rowe, and my nickname is Mimi. I am 13 years old and I love to dance, sing, act, play the piano and do calligraphy. This is my life and I love to live it in my own way. I dance at Totnes School of Dance and I go to KEVICC’s in Totnes. In the future I would love to attend a Dance College. This year has been amazing for me, as I was selected to dance for England at the Dance World Cup in Spain. I participated in 3 group dances and won 2 gold medals and a 4th place. Then at the end of the summer I attended the Brighton Tap Festival and won the Intermediate Cutting Competition. I love having the opportunity to review Devon dance shows because I love to watch dance shows and see different styles, I then try and copy their ideas and use them in my dance.
Review of Swan Lake | Matthew Bourne's New Adventures, by Esme Rowe
Tuesday 25 September 2018 at Theatre Royal Plymouth
On arriving at the theatre, you just knew that something outstanding was about to be seen. The atmosphere and people were excited and buzzing with anticipation for this sell out ballet.
The opening scene in the Prince’s bedroom was exciting and this quickly moved into the Palace. There was a comical act which traditionally showed the Royal family that we know, this had everyone laughing.
The acts moved quickly and smoothly though the Opera House, the Prince’s private quarters, a night club scene which continued into the streets and a Royal Ball which was filled with tension and amazing story telling of how a Prince fell in love with a Swan. The replacement of the iconic corps-de-ballet by the male dancers, who danced menacingly as beautiful swans. Eventually the ballet finished back in the Prince’s bedroom with a dramatic and emotional end. This masterpiece had everyone stood up and a standing ovation in a way I’ve never seen before.
The costumes were amazing and the sets beautiful. This ballet had such a dramatic impact and I felt every emotion, happy, sad, excited and so much more. I enjoyed this so much I am returned to see it again the same week.
Top Image: Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake