Scottish Ballet – The Scandal At Mayerling At Theatre Royal, Glasgow Review

Reviewed by Deb Mackenzie

Another superb performance by Scottish Ballet; The Scandal at Mayerling is based on a true story set in 1889. The opening scene at the burial with only a priest and witness in attendance; the set was dark and foreboding, with reflected on the life of Prince Rudolf.

Rewinding some years earlier, The Imperial Court celebrate the marriage of Prince Rudolf and Princess Stephanie. At the celebration Rudolf shamelessly flirts with Stephanie’s sister, he was an embarrassment to his parents and his new bride.

At the celebrations Rudolf is hounded by four Hungarian nationalists to support their separate causes, which he does conspicuously. Countess Larisch, his former mistress tries to reignite her affair with Rudolf, but was discovered by the emperor, who demands that Rudolf return to his wife. As the evening continues Rudolf is showing signs of mental stress which has been made worse by his wild lifestyle, drugs and alcohol abuse to try and numb his pain against suspected syphilis.

Rudolf’s upbringing was cold to say the least, and even on the night of his wedding he visits his mother telling her of his unhappiness of being pressured into this marriage. But she is so estranged from him that she is unable to console or show him any affection.

Stephanie is tormented by Rudolf, when he shows her a skull and revolver; the night ends with Rudolf sexually assaulting his wife.

My favourite scene was when Rudolf, Stephanie and the driver go to the tavern. Trying to life Stephanie’s mood, it ends up that she is disgusted and flees when she witnesses how the brothel workers compete for the men’s attention. Rudolf turns his attention to his Hungarian friends which is practically treasonous. The police burst in arresting several people, bringing the night to a close. The prostitutes outfits looked like frilly pants with corset type tops; I loved the way they looked and how appropriate it was without looking tacky.

As time goes on Rudolf’s mental anguish worsens, he is unable to see a clear way forward; he proposes a suicide pact with his mistress, Mary and she agrees. After a night fuelled by morphine and heavy drinking, he carries out his suicidal pact by shooting Mary and then himself.

The set and costume design by Elin Steele enhances the moods and feelings of the characters. Costumes are flamboyant but did not hide the powerful dance moves, especially in the duets.

The music was powerful; it ‘spoke’, ‘shouted’ and ‘teased’ through the scenes. Enhancing the dancers’ characters, as the scandalised and shocking tale of Rudolf unfolded unto his death.

There were times when I held my breath as the dancers threw each other across the stage; one wrong move and it would have been disastrous. But they were flawless as they trusted and danced together in lifts, turns and harsh movements, showing the dark and morbid inner torment of Rudolf.

This was/is the most outstanding performance I have seen Scottish Ballet perform; their come back is stronger than ever and I am eager to see what they do next. Even without knowing the scandalous true tale, the dancers and orchestra brought it to life; each dark, macabre fascination of Rudolf and his wild lifestyle which led to ruin.

Rating: 5 Star Rating

Tickets cost from £11.50

The show is on from Wednesday 13th April until Saturday 16th April

For more information or to book tickets please visit The Scandal at Mayerling | Scottish Ballet or Scottish Ballet – The Scandal at Mayerling Tickets | Theatre Royal Glasgow in Glasgow | ATG Tickets.