Edward Scissorhands at Alhambra Theatre Bradford Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Sarah Woodhead
Get along to Bradford’s Alhambra this week and fall in love with Edward Scissorhands. The show about the forgotten and incomplete boy trying to find his place in a strange new world.
Based on the 1990 Tim Burton movie of the same name. Matthew Bourne presents the latest run of his very own adaptation of the story alongside dancers from New Adventures company who bring his spectacular vision to life.
In addition you hauntingly familiar music from the movie by Danny Elfman is the addition of new music from Terry Davies.
As a family my children and I have enjoyed the movie together since they were toddlers. I took the oldest son who is 12 and he was utterly blown away. I could tell his excitement from his voice going high!
I was unsure what to expect of a dance show and was slightly curious how the story could be told without song or spoken word, however there was absolutely nothing to worry about. For those who are interested or need it, there is a visual guide on the Alhambra website to help you along with the story ..
Bourne has his own take on the story with slightly different narrative, yet still based around the original screen play.
Edward finds his way into the Suburbs of Spring Hope after his creator passes away from a heart attack. Feeling lost and hopeless Edward encounters Peg Boggs as he wanders confused in her neighbourhood. After their brief encounter Peg takes Edward under her wing and tries to integrate him into their lives surrounded by the curious neighbours. Edward takes a journey of finding acceptance while falling in love with the Bogs teenage daughter Kim. The story is a bitter sweet love story surrounding Kim and Edward.
You will meet the families in the neighbourhood
The Bog
The Evercreeches
The Uptons
The Covits
The Monroes
The Gailbrites who are the new addition to this run of the show. The first same sex couple as Bourne stays relevant with today’s society..
Set in the 1950s the families with their own little quirks and unique fashions identify them.
With an absolutely stunning set and outstanding choreography half way between a ballet and dance theatre. There is comedy in there too with some laugh out loud moments comedically acted out without words, not the easiest feat.
Each character, from the promiscuity sultry Mrs Monroe who I absolutely adored, to her sap of a husband. To the competitive dads, or the stereotypical gay couple. Not forgetting Edward’s clumsy side. All the dancers had their moment to shine.
Familiar yet fresh feeling, it’s a bitter sweet and heart warming show which lasts around 2 hours with a 20 min interval.
The full cast dancing scenes are spectacular leaving you unsure which character to keep your eyes on as their action all round is full of surprises. The set, the music, the dances. it’s mesmerising and we were fully immersed and blown away. Engaging from beginning to end it was tough not to shed a tear.
The show is a winner, the scenery by Lez Brotherston is magical, visually spectacular and gorgeous, the dancing second to none. I absolutely love the scene with Edward, Kim and the dancing topiaries.
Edward is the star of the show, his awkwardness and clumsy ways and the quizzical expressions are spot on.
This is a snappy sharp feast for the eyes, simply divine, a sight for the eyes not to be missed, utterly spectacular. I give it the highest of praise.
Rating: 5/5
Currently playing at the Alhambra from 9th-13th April tickets £49.75 – £22.75* with matinee performances on Thursday and Saturday
https://www.bradford-theatres.co.uk/whats-on/edward-scissorhands
Liam Mower photography