Well Besties, what a show! Thirty years after its ground-breaking debut New Adventures’ Swan Lake is once again captivating audiences and demonstrating why Matthew Bourne is regarded as one of Britain’s best choreographers.

The tragic love story of Swan Lake is one of the most popular ballets of all time. It has been reinterpreted multiple times but never quite as Bourne first did in 1995. This current tour subtitled ‘The Next Generation’ celebrates the 30th Anniversary and continues to bring new energy to Tchaikovsky’s timeless classic and nurture the next wave of talented dancers. The production follows Bourne’s frequent theme of repressed youth. The Prince is deeply unhappy with his regimented life living with his controlling and distant mother, the Queen. This creates an incredibly emotional and sensual intensity when he meets The Swan/Stranger, which delivers the freedom and connection he so desires.

James Lovell and Harrison Dowzell are outstanding as The Prince and The Swan. Their chemistry is electric and they both give sensitive and intimate but powerful performances. During their pas-de-deuxs, you can hear a pin drop as they soar across the stage dancing Bourne’s bold and innovative choreography.

On its debut, Bourne’s production gained attention and adulation when he replaced the female corps-de-ballet with an intimidating all-male ensemble of swans. This shattering of convention continues to make for a truly unique and mesmerising experience. The combination of grace and power is a wonder to watch. It is a perfect marriage with Tchaikovsky’s soaring and intricate music played by a stunning orchestra which is fantastically projected by the brilliant acoustics of Sadler’s Wells.

Swan Lake is very much an ensemble piece and there is so much talent on stage, but this isn’t limited to the male roles. The procession of princesses in the third act gives the female members of the ensemble a chance to shine. Throughout the show, Nicole Kabera is stylish and stoic as The Queen and Katrina Lyndon’s portrayal of The Girlfriend brings a wonderful comedic element to this intense story.

Swan Lake is a sensationally sleek, contemporary dance spectacle. Lez Brotherston’s simple yet striking set pieces descend from above to match the bold and audacious choreography. The pink of The Girlfriend’s dress clashes with the almost exclusively black and white costumes embodying the strict morals of the court and bringing edge to this emotive show.

Bourne’s reimagining of Tchaikovsky's masterpiece is an exquisite combination of classical and contemporary. New Adventures’ Swan Lake continues to be an unmissable dance experience.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Sophie Luck

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake: The Next Generation plays at Sadler’s Wells until 26 January 2025, with further info here.