Review: EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, Birmingham Hippodrome - Tour
Photo credit: Johan Persson
Matthew Bourne's New Adventures’ contemporary dance adaptation of the beloved 1990 film Edward Scissorhands is touring once again, and we had the pleasure of catching it at the iconic Birmingham Hippodrome last night.
Glimpses of Tim Burton's magic are visible in this adaptation, though the emphasis on dance over storytelling risks alienating audience members who are expecting a faithful retelling of the narrative. While Bourne's distinctive style is undoubtedly present, it may not be enough to compensate for the lack of narrative coherence for those unfamiliar with the original source material.
Young Edward and his inventor father live in a gothic manor on top of a hill overlooking Hope Springs, a small town where everyone lives in similar houses, following the same daily routines - think Stepford meets the Truman Show. When outside playing, young Edward is killed by a strike of lightning. The heartbroken father starts to build a new Edward, creating an entirely new being, complete with legs, body, heart, soul and personality. However, the "teens" from the town decide the greatest Halloween prank of all time is to break into the gothic manor, scaring the Father who has a heart attack and passes before being able to complete his new son. Edward must now live out the remainder of his life alone, with multiple pairs of scissors instead of hands. Wandering into Hope Mills in search of scraps and food, Edward meets the kindly Peg Boggs who decides to take him in. Here, a beautiful story of otherness, acceptance and love ensues.
Liam Mower is a joy to behold in the title role of Edward Scissorhands. His intricate characterisation is charming and endearing whilst displaying considerable athleticism, stamina and poise. Mowers' comedic timing and expressive faces brings heart to Edward creating a fully rounded character. Ashley Shaw is equally exquisite in the role of Kim Boggs, portraying the journey of teen ideals and friendship cliques, and the transformation to honouring your own moral compass with charm, innocence and dignity. Undoubtedly, the duets between these two main characters are some of the most powerful and emotionally resonant moments on stage. These intimate and expressive pas de deux not only showcase the incredible talent of Mower and Shaw, but also serve as poignant reflections of the complex relationship between Edward and his love interest, Kim.
Each of the 25 beautifully diverse cast members bring their own charm to the stage. Indeed, each and everyone of them is worthy of note, bringing clear identifiable, varied and intentionally two-dimensional characters to life with humour and grandeur. Lez Brotherston’s set and costume designs are brilliant and witty. Brotherston's creative vision brings to life the whimsical and fantastical world of Edward Scissorhands in a way that both honours the original film and adds a fresh, innovative twist. Indeed there is little to fault with the incredible performers and creative team, however, this adaptation feels lacking.
While it showcases impressive visuals and talented performers, it falls short in terms of pacing and narrative cohesion. It feels like it takes a while to get really going. The larger group numbers, whilst very fun at the beginning, become indulgent, long and don't move the story forward. The new music and arrangements by Terry Davies are stunning and one can only imagine the hair-raising moments that are created with a live band. Sadly, the recorded version feels out of balance at times with instruments sounding piercing in the mix.
Nevertheless, it is a very pleasant trip to the theatre, and if you are a fan of Mathew Bourne or Edward Scissorhands, it is worthy of a watch. It's lacking the WOW for us Besties, but you will still have a nice time.
*** Three stars
Reviewed by: Alanna Boden
Edward Scissorhands plays at Birmingham Hippodrome until 10 February, with tickets for select touring venues available here.