Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty - The Lowy

APPARENTLY there’s a World Cup taking place at the moment. While at The Lowry in Salford however, there’s an evening of world class dance to enjoy, courtesy of Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty.

With his fresh and invigorating approach to the genre I imagine Bourne’s innovative approach has won over a new generation of ballet fans and I couldn’t myself among those.

For instance, the baby Princess Aurora is a wall climbing puppet in this production which premiered in London by Bourne’s company, New Adventures, 10 years ago.

In this role, Ashley Shaw redefines takes the words grace and elegance to a whole new level here and the choreography is by turns, moving, playful and exhilarating.

The timing of the rest of the cast is also exceptional, with all of them making it all look very easy.

You’ll find yourselves hoping Aurora escapes the evil clutches of Caradoc, danced by a darkly charismatic Paris Fitzpatrick and find her way into the arms of her true love.

If this magical production is a feast for the eyes, the ears are in for a musical treat too, courtesy of a rather brilliant score by Tchaikovsky. I guarantee even if you never seen a ballet before there will be certain sections of it you will know.

Flawless, magical and unmissable. Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty is a must see.

Until November 26. Tickets are available from 0343 208 6000 or www.thelowry.com.

Star rating - *****