The Australian Ballet Swan Lake
A world-class collaboration between The Australian Ballet and The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra…
The Australian Ballet
Swan Lake
With the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Choreographed by Graeme Murphy
Music by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
The Lowry, Tue 14 – Sat 18 October 2008
Press Night: Tue 14 October, 7.30pm
Swan Lake is one of the world’s favourite ballets and judging by The Australian Ballet’s dazzling version, created by Australia’s leading choreographer Graeme Murphy, it is not hard to see why. Set to Tchaikovsky’s immortal music played by the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, this spectacular interpretation marks The Australian Ballet’s debut at The Lowry from Tue 14 – Sat 18 October.
Featuring a contemporary storyline full of drama, wit and passion, Murphy has brought the spirit and scale of classical ballet into the 21st century with extraordinary results. Winner of the ‘Best Foreign Dance Company’ at the 2005 UK Critics’ Circle National Dance Awards, The Australian Ballet is renowned as the defining face of ballet in Australia and known for its dynamic mix of classical and contemporary dance.
This production marks the first time in recent history that the BBC Philharmonic has performed in the pit for a ballet in this way. Widely recognised as one of Britain’s finest orchestras, the BBC Philharmonic has its own recording studio at BBC Manchester where it records programmes and concerts for Radio 3. It also performs around 20 concerts a year at Manchester’s magnificent Bridgewater Hall. The Orchestra has built a worldwide reputation for outstanding quality and committed performances over a wide-ranging repertoire.
One of the richest and most extravagant experiences of dance to be seen in The Lowry’s theatres, this masterpiece has sold out more than 150 performances since its première at the State Theatre in Melbourne in 2002. Featuring more than 70 dancers, ravishing sets and costumes, the work contrasts heartbreaking duets with lavish scenes at the Royal Court and by the frozen lake, a dreamlike setting where Odette seeks solace from her turbulent marriage to Prince Siegfried.
The Lowry’s Artistic Director, Robert Robson says, “When I first saw The Australian Ballet’s production of Swan Lake, I realised I was in the presence of a truly special production of the greatest ballet of all time. The dexterity and poise of the performers was matched by truly captivating choreography by Graeme Murphy. It is a truly special ballet event that will undoubtedly linger long in the memory.”
“… a treat for ballet virgins and connoisseurs alike.” The Independent, UK
"... one of the most outstanding [pieces of] choreography of the last decade." The Daily Telegraph
“… exhilarating, absorbing, technically demanding and theatrically seductive.” Sydney Morning Herald
" **** the company is on ripping form with joyous ensembles and dynamite design. The Australian Ballet should be proud…" Metro on Swan Lake
Posted on Thursday, 11 September 2008 under Press Theatre Press