Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake at Milton Keynes Theatre Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Mel Randle

Last night we attended opening night of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake at Milton Keynes Theatre. Celebrating its 30th year, this production marries the iconic score of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and the ingenious choreography of Matthew Bourne. Having seen several Matthew Bourne productions before, I knew not to expect the norm when it comes to the classic ballet. He is celebrated (and awarded) for his ground breaking interpretations, but from experience I knew I was in for a visual treat, and it did not disappoint!!

Swan Lake is a ballet I am familiar with, however I don’t think this held me in good stead because this interpretation is quite far removed from the original. The story revolves around a prince and his struggles to be accepted and find love from both his mother and the outside world eventually leading to his mental breakdown. The first half was quite easy to follow, but then the second half was definitely more confusing so I would suggest reading a synopsis before you go to be able to relax into the performance. I think Matthew Bourne also leaves a lot open to the audience interpretation so make of it what you will. The score, however, remains unchanged so regardless of the story, we were able to enjoy Tchaikovsky’s ballet in all its glory!

The things that sell Matthew Bourne’s productions to me and will keep me going back time and time again are the scenery and the costume. It amazes me every time I see one that they are touring productions. The sets are phenomenal and the work that must go into them are incredible. For this production we were treated to a palace, a theatre and a grand ballroom to name a few. Lez Brotherson, the set and costume designer, was awarded an OBE in 2022 and based on this I can see why! Nothing that I write in this review can bring justice to the set, so you’ll just have to go and see it for yourself!!

Now we must discuss the swans! What makes this production so iconic is Bourne’s casting of an all male swan troupe, a feast for the eyes if a greased, very well sculptured male torso is what takes your fancy, because there is a lot of them. But for me personally, there was swan overkill. The dancing was absolutely incredible, but it just went on a little bit too long. As the music piece ended and the swans exited stage right, another piece started and they came on again – approx. 6 times. It’s a pivotal part of the story they were telling, but I do feel it could have been told in half the time. It was so intense, the interval came at just the right time to take a moment to relax.

Despite my criticism, this show is incredible and I would urge anyone to see it. Don’t be put off if ballet is ‘not your thing’, because this is a spectacle of dance, music and creativity. Beautiful throughout, funny in parts and highly emotional at the end. All fully endorsed by the rapturous applause and fully deserved standing ovation.

Rating: 5/5

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake is showing at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 19th April 2025
Tickets available from £50.00 subject to a transaction fee of £3.95

For more information and to book, visit www.atgtickets.com