The Acrobatic Swan Lake, Sadler’s Wells Review

Written by Mia for Theatre and Tonic.

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

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Swan Lake is one of the most famous tragic ballets, with a powerful score and story aiding its dramatic impact. China’s Xi’an Acrobatic Troupe have taken this beautiful tale of love and loss, and created something unique that combines dance and acrobatics into a performance that transcends cultural boundaries.

It’s very random.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s utterly exquisite with breathtaking stunts, mesmerising sequences and stunning scenery and costumes. Unfortunately, a lot of the acrobatics feel forced into the production, whilst the comedy moments detract from the storytelling.

We experience the traditional Swan Lake story - albeit with a happy ending - told through a mixture of ballet and more contemporary dance. Our prince broods in his palace, whilst jesters entertain him with juggling and comedy, while the Black Hawk King is entertained by acrobatic snakes and courtiers. The frog acrobats work really well, adding humour and awe to the woodland scene, and the ensemble performance with the hats is a joy to watch.

Our swans are graceful, combining aerial hoop work with dance and it’s beautiful to watch. Some of the swans glide as if on remote-controlled skateboards; others soar above the stage, twirling majestically. And our prince balances his princess on his bicep. En pointe. Incredible.

Overall it’s a fantastic production, almost faultless in its execution. It just needs a little reworking of the choreography to ensure that all of the acrobatics and comedy integrate seamlessly into the flow of the story.

At Sadler’s Wells until 29 June.
★ ★ ★ ★