Edward Scissorhands at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford Review
Edward Scissorhands
Alhambra Theatre, Bradford
24-28 February 2015
Reviewed by Louise Harsley
I took my eldest daughter along with me to review Matthew Bourne’s theatrical version of one of my favourite childhood films, Edward Scissorhands. We arrived by train into Bradford Interchange and walked to the Alhambra theatre, which took us around seven minutes. There is nearby parking at two NCP car parks and a special rate of £3.80 for four hours applies to those visiting the theatre via car.
On approach to the Alhambra, the building seems to be designed like a domed palace and appears to be well looked after compared to the surrounding buildings. In the lobby, we were greeted by a helpful lady who invited us to a VIP area, called the Laidler bar, once the interval commenced. There is a restaurant on one of the upper floors serving main courses priced £9-£14. We had already eaten so headed straight for a drink at the general bar area where drinks were fairly reasonably priced.
The interior of the auditorium was decorated beautifully, with pastel blue, white and golden paintwork with a lovely adornment on the ceiling. The seating is a dark red colour; there are plenty of comfortable seats, each with a clear view of the stage. We were sat in the stalls and had a great view of the stage form row L.
This was my first time at a ballet and I was intrigued as to how Edwards Scissorhand could be depicted into a ballet and therefore assumed it would be serious. I was so wrong! Matthew Bourne’s Edward Scissorhands is the story of a boy who appears to have been brought back from the dead by his father and has his hands substituted for scissors. An attack takes place, which results in the death of Edward’s father. Edward is alone until Mrs Boggs stumbles across him and welcomes him into her home to join their family. Edward falls in love with Mrs Boggs’ daughter, Kim; however, things just aren’t plain sailing for Edward.
The actor who portrayed Edward did one hell of a job! He had the mannerisms and movement just like the Edward in the film version. As I mentioned before, I was wrong to assume this ballet would be serious. There was definitely some comedy thrown in! Laughter could be heard from the audience throughout. I would probably describe this production as modern ballet with the use of a variety of different dance genres and the choreography was imaginative and seamlessly executed.
Although there were no speaking parts, the story was truly told by the choreography, props on set and the choice of musical pieces. The scenery was projected onto screens and involved amazing light effects and a wide range of props, most of which were creatively crafted into a three dimensional effect. This effect made you feel you were part of the action and that the stage had come to life. Most of the scene changes ran flawlessly and the good use of lighting effects assisted this. Each piece of music set the scene perfectly and sent my emotions running, particularly towards the end.
I particularly enjoyed a scene where Edward and Kim are dancing with each other in a topiary garden. Each topiary tree was in fact a dancer dressed up to create the look of a dancing topiary garden. It was an enchanting and romantic scene. This whole production was very captivating and could not be faulted. All I can say is this show is a must, whether you are a fan of the original film, a fan of Matthew Bourne or have a fondness for romantic fantasy. I adored this production and just did not want it to end. It was topped off by a magical snowy finale and a standing ovation. I was in absolute awe of this magical experience.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £19.50 to £36.50 (plus £1.50 booking fee).
Edward Scissorhands is at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford until 28 February 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 01274 432000.
The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ | Box Office 01274 432000
