Sleeping Beauty on Ice
The Lowry, Manchester
3-7 April 2013
Reviewed by Debbie Tasker
The Imperial Stars production of this classic fairy tale is currently touring the U.K. We were lucky enough to catch it at The Lowry this week.
We did wonder how on earth were they going to adapt the stage into an ice rink, but they did! With 14 tonnes of ice and 140 man hours we were informed in the souvenir brochure, which by the way was a very interesting read. It did make for a rather chilly theatre but a small price to pay for an amazing evening.
The Imperial Stars comprises of 26 Olympic, World, National and European skaters who between them have amassed over 250 medals. Taking the title role of Princess Aurora is Olga Sharutenko who if you’re a Dancing on Ice fan (as I am) you will remember her from this year’s line-up partnering Keith Chegwin. The evil black fairy Carabosse is played by Luliia Odintcova, and the handsome prince Desire part is taken by Bogdan Berezenko.
The show is set to the music of Russian composer Tchaikovsky which is the perfect score for this adaptation. Artistic Director Tony Mercer has done an excellent job of making the story easy to follow. The costumes designed by Natella Abdulaeva and Svetlana Murzak were excellent, the vibrant colourful dresses worn by the female cast complemented each act perfectly, and the evil fairy looked just that – evil, but at the same time beautiful! Scenic designer Eamon D’arcy has also done a fantastic job with simple but realistic scene changes.
This is an enchanting production full of aerial acrobatics, lifts, high speed skating, brilliant duets, throws and even some fire effects. There is no weak link all the skaters have stand-out performances. There are some truly breath-taking moments.
We had a magical evening and Lauren aged 7 was mesmerized throughout. When I asked her which bit was her favourite she said it was the Lilac Fairy (Yulia Ashcheulova) which I have to admit was a good choice.
Suitable for all the family, a fantastic evening’s entertainment.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost £18 – £28. Show is 120 minutes (approx).
For more information or to book your tickets online here.
