Pinocchio Ballet at the Grove Theatre Dunstable Review
Pinocchio Ballet
Grove Theatre, Dunstable
9 April 2016
Reviewed by Sandra McGhee
I was very fortunate to be invited to review the Pinocchio ballet performance last night at my local theatre. As usual the staff were friendly and accommodating upon collecting my tickets and ordering refreshments. I was surprised upon taking my seats that the auditorium wasn’t as full as expected. However it was a delight to see lots of families watching a traditional ballet as Pinocchio (the second animated feature film produced by Disney and considered the greatest Disney animated feature of all time). The performance was suitable for all ages and the audience certainly was a real mix of ages ranging from around 3 or 4 upwards.
The curious tale of Pinocchio was beautifully choreographed and directed by Ballet Theatre UK. The school was founded with the aim and intention of nurturing a new generation of dance artists. By incorporating multiple styles of dance training with a view to versatility and strength, the school provides the expertise of an exemplary staff as well as the opportunity to work alongside one of the UK’s best loved ballet companies.
Most people will know the story (certainly one of my favourites) and plot which involves an old wood-carver named Geppetto (David Brewer) who carves a wooden puppet carved from pine with but only one wish… to become a real boy! The puppet is brought to life by a blue fairy (Ines Ferreira).
Ballet is a beautiful and demanding art form and all the dancers were very impressive along with the gorgeous glittery costumes (it was very obvious the cast have rehearsed and spent many hours working hard to bring the production to stage). The show was a real pleasure to watch and I witnessed lots of young girls in the audience in awe and transfixed to their seats. So highly recommended for any ballet enthusiasts as there were plenty of Grand Jeté, Pirouettes, Sauté, Pliés to name only a few in spectacular style with classical dance.
Pinocchio was superbly performed by Rodolphe Giacalone and was fantastic. My favourite scene was when he transformed to life from puppet. All the cast played and danced their roles really well, I particularly liked the Fox played by Emma Miller but each and every performer deserves a big round of applause and recognition.
The cheeky marionette puppet with an unruly nose (which certainly added a little humour in parts) proved to all that dreams really do come true.
Pinocchio, joined with iconic characters such as Gepetto, The Blue Fairy and Jiminy Cricket, will take you on a heartfelt journey of discovery. The tale teaches children the benefits of hard work and values.
All in all a beautiful ballet and delight to watch and not to be missed.
Rating: 4/5
The Ballet Theatre UK production of Pinocchio is currently on tour around the UK until 19 June 2016, for more information and tour dates visit www.ballettheatreuk.com.
For other shows at the Grove Theatre in Dunstable visit www.grovetheatre.co.uk.
Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP | 01582 602080
