Matthew Bourne’s “Sleeping Beauty” is a retelling of the classic fairy tale that captivates audiences with its stunning choreography, imaginative sets, and incredible storytelling. This critically acclaimed ballet production is renowned for its bold and innovative interpretation of the classic story, making it a must-see for fans of dance and theatre alike. This production is now in Cardiff at Wales Millennium Centre until Saturday 4 February 2023.
For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to Matthew Bourne’s, Sleeping Beauty.
At its core, “Sleeping Beauty” tells the story of Princess Aurora, who is cursed at birth to prick her finger on the spindle of a spinning wheel and fall into a deep sleep for 100 years. When she is finally awoken by the kiss of a prince, she finds herself in a strange and unfamiliar world, full of strange and mysterious creatures.
Bourne’s version of the story is both contemporary and timeless, incorporating elements of gothic horror, Victorian elegance, and fantastical magic. The choreography is breathtaking, blending traditional ballet with contemporary dance styles to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The dancers move with grace and precision, bringing the story to life through their movements and expressions.
The set design is also a highlight of the production, with breathtaking sets and stunning costumes that transport the audience to a world of magic and wonder. The use of lighting and special effects adds to the overall ambiance, creating an immersive experience that leaves the audience captivated and entranced.
In addition to the breathtaking dance and stunning visuals, the musical score is also a standout feature of the production. The lush, sweeping melodies are performed live by a full orchestra, adding to the overall impact of the show.
Overall, Matthew Bourne’s “Sleeping Beauty” is a must-see for fans of dance and theatre. Its imaginative retelling of the classic fairy tale, combined with its stunning choreography, beautiful sets, and incredible musical score, make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of ballet or simply looking for a unique and captivating night out, “Sleeping Beauty” is not to be missed.
The Company/Cast
King Benedict | Andrew Monaghan, Dominic North, Danny Reubens
Queen Eleanor | Stephanie Billers, Kayla Collymore
Princess Aurora, their daughter | Katrina Lyndon, Ashley Shaw
Leo, the Royal Gamekeeper | Rory Macleod, Andrew Monaghan, Stephen Murray
Count Lilac, King of the Fairies | Paris Fitzpatrick, Dominic North, Christopher Thomas
Carabosse, the Dark Fairy | Ben Brown, Jackson Fisch, Paris Fitzpatrick Caradoc
Caradoc son of Carabosse | Ben Brown, Jackson Fisch, Paris Fitzpatrick
Ardor, the Fairy of Passion | Kayla Collymore, Katrina Lyndon, Bryony Wood
Hibernia, the Fairy of Rebirth | Megan Ferguson, Kurumi Kamayachi, Hannah Kremer
Autumnus, the Fairy of Plenty | James Lovell, Enrique Ngbokota, Christopher Thomas
Feral, the Fairy of Spirit | Jade Copas, Shoko Ito, Kurumi Kamayachi
Tantrum, the Fairy of Temperament | Jackson Fisch, Stephen Murray, Enrique Ngbokota
Lord Rupert, suitor to Aurora | Ben Brown, Isaac Peter Bowry, Cameron Flynn
Viscount Aubrey, another suitor | Benjamin Barlow Bazeley, Perreira de Jesus Franque, Danny Reubens
Sir Evelyn, another suitor | Benjamin Barlow Bazeley, James Lovell, Rory Macleod
Miss Maddox, Aurora’s Nanny | Stephanie Billers, Sophia Hurdley, Shoko Ito, Daisy May Kemp
Flossie, Aurora’s Maid | Jade Copas, Megan Ferguson, Bryony Wood
Archie, palace footman | Benjamin Barlow Bazeley, James Lovell, Rory Macleod
Bertie, palace footman | Isaac Peter Bowry, Ben Brown, Cameron Flynn
Carabosse Attendants | Benjamin Barlow Bazeley, Isaac Peter Bowry, Ben Brown, Cameron Flynn, Pereira de Jesus Franque, Danny Reubens
Caiff Garden Party Guests, Tourists, Sleepwalkers, Caradoc’s Henchmen, Wedding Guests a phypedwyr eu perfformio gan aelodau or Cwmni.
Garden Party Guests, Tourists, Sleepwalkers, Caradoc’s Henchmen, Wedding Guests and puppeteers all performed by members of the Company.
A big thank you to Wales Millennium Centre for having us.
The length of this musical
The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including the interval.
Getting your tickets
You can purchase your tickets HERE. The tickets start from £18.00 and the show is available from 31 January – 4 February 2023. There is medium to high availability in most days at the moment and remember to check the times of the shows, as they may vary.
Age guidance: 5+ (no under 2s). Further details can be found on their website.
If you have already watched this production, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back here if you can and left us know too.
Thank you for reading.
Stay safe
Kay
