Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes

Yesterday my friend Lexi and I had the opportunity to see Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes at The Marlowe Theatre and it was thoroughly unforgettable!

This production of The Red Shoes is based on the award-winning film by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, filled with music by Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann. Matthew Bourne does a fantastic job of putting the two together to create this beautiful, melodious theatrical masterpiece.

It tells a story of Victoria Page, who is a young ballerina discovered by Lermontov. Julian Craster, a composer also discovered by Lermontov (in the same ballet group with Victoria), writes The Red Shoes as a new ballet and it becomes extremely popular. Victoria is given the lead role and the two get so close. This is something Lermontov is not pleased about. Victoria is torn between her deep passion for dance and her love for Julian. She tries to navigate the challenge of pursuing her ambition and dream amidst her surroundings, but this has tragic consequences.

This production is outstanding from start to finish. The choreography beautifully paints the picture as well as tells the story. The elegant costumes add to the glamour, and the set is unbelievable.

The story is told so powerfully although not a single sentence was spoken. It was told completely through movement, dance and expression. This is a huge credit to the actors who portray their characters to perfection!

The show is currently running at The Marlowe Theatre @marlowetheatre until Saturday 4 April. It is a must-watch!

— Melody Caruana @melodycaruana