Anne of Green Gables

To tell a story, sometimes you don’t even have to say a single word. This is one of the most beautiful performances I’ve ever seen.

I was invited to see London Children’s Ballet @lcbballet’s production of Anne of Green Gables a fortnight ago. Having read the novel and watched the Netflix series Anne with an E, I was already familiar with Anne’s story. Even so, I was excited to see how it would be brought to life through ballet.

Everything about this production can be summed up in one word: beautiful. From the opening scene, the audience is transported to Avonlea, where we are introduced to our spirited, red-headed protagonist, Anne.

Amelie French, who takes on the title role, is simply perfect for the role. Her talent is evident from the moment she steps on stage. Every movement, every expression feels purposeful and well thought-out. I particularly enjoyed watching her interaction with other characters – genuine, full of warmth and with a bit of mischief.

Another highlight was Berta Lesmes as Diana. It was a joy to watch her friendship with Anne blossom, sharing moments of laughter as well as the occasional mishap. Equally compelling was Anne’s relationship with Gilbert, played by Illia Bondarenko, as their rivalry gradually transformed into friendship. Phoebe Smart and John Holden were wonderful as the Cuthberts. The scene in which Matthew collapses was especially poignant.

There were 54 LCB pupils on stage. Not only was my attention captured by the principal dancers but also by the ensemble, who came together to bring Avonlea vividly to life. I loved how this production gave each of them little moments to shine.

However well-choreographed a show is, at the heart of it all is the storytelling. It’s just like us in musical theatre – we’re not simply singing songs but telling the story. The dancers in this production demonstrated elegantly how choreography and storytelling become one. By the final curtain, I felt both emotional and inspired by this stunningly beautiful performance put on completely by young people.