Written by: Lily Grouse (@LilyKG)
Richmond Theatre, London
*****
Swan Lake, set to Tchaikovsky's wonderful
score, is one of the world's best-known ballets, and the audience’s
enthusiastic response in Richmond Theatre is a testament to this production’s
perfect execution. I was thrilled at the prospect of seeing the Moscow City
Ballet, a company with such a fantastic reputation, reviving their signature
piece, and I certainly was not disappointed.
I've
always heard that it is best to already know the story of the ballet you're
about to see, as there's only so much storytelling that can be clearly
communicated through the medium of dance. I truly believe, however, that even
the most clueless audience member would be able to follow Prince Siegfried's
journey in this production. The principals were especially expressive and
precise in their characterisations, making the plot extremely easy to follow.
The entire piece was a beautiful marriage of impressive musicianship, detailed
choreography and breathtaking performances.
Lilia
Oryekhova had the particularly difficult job of portraying both Odette and her
twin sister Odille (the white swan and the black swan, respectively). Her
performance is absolutely outstanding - so outstanding, in fact, that an
extremely passionate fellow sitting near me exclaimed "Brava!" at the
end of each of her solos.
Oryekhova’s stamina is remarkable, and her ability to switch seamlessly from
Odette’s wounded demeanour to Odille’s lasciviousness, whilst delivering wildly
complicated choreography, left me stunned.
The
company worked together marvellously. There was no weak link, to the further
credit of Oryekhova, whose performance still managed to stand out among such a
talented collective.
I
can't recommend this production enough, and I suggest you try to catch the end
of their UK
This production has now closed.
For more information:
http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/mcb-swan-lake/richmond-theatre/#overview_tab
@RichmondTheatre
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