Former dancer said the ballet was “mesmerising and unforgettable” as Lyceum Theatre
welcomes sold-out crowds.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Matthew Bourne’s iconic reimagining of the Tchaikovsky classic,
featuring a male corps-de-ballet, brings a wave of excitement to the city.
The Lyceum Theatre opened Tuesday night to packed rows and standing ovations for Bourne’s
genre defying interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s 19th-century classic. Famous for replacing the
traditional female corps with a feral, masculine ensemble. The psychological drama has shattered
ballet convention and become a touchstone of modern queer theatre.
“A mesmerising tragedy, but also funny. It made me feel everything,” said Laila Hart, 21, a former
ballet dancer now living in Crookes. “It’s amazing we’re getting to show queer love stories in this
medium that’s so traditional, it’s completely unlike anything I’ve seen on a Sheffield stage.”
Hart, who trained in classical ballet, was struck by the dark energy and vivid sounds. “You can hear their breathing, the
intentional footsteps, the thigh-slapping,” said Hart. “They become part of the music, everything
intertwined.”
The show’s updated narrative focuses on the inner turmoil of the Prince and explores themes of
repression, loneliness and identity. Bourne’s use of movement and altered structure in
Tchaikovsky’s score gives the production a contemporary emotional depth.
Earlier this year, Bourne reflected on the work’s legacy:
“When our Swan Lake premiered nearly 30 years ago it created a sensation that none of us could
have predicted… I’m full of anticipation for the wonder it will bring to audiences who will
experience it for the very first time.”
Dubbed by some as “the gay Swan Lake”, the revival explores the Prince’s struggle with isolation
and suppressed desire. It’s a ballet resonant with today’s conversations around masculinity and
sexuality.
“There are so many gay men in dance, so it’s really good that they’re getting to dance with each
other and tell their own stories,” said Hart. “Sheffield is such an artistic city, it’s great to have
something like this right on your doorstep.”
The production has been awarded three Tony Awards and an Olivier Award for its bold theatrical
vision. Matthew Bourne’s sell-out Swan Lake runs at the Lyceum Theatre until Saturday, May 17.
For a city with a proud creative identity, this landmark reimagining breaks the mould.