There is a sort of magic in the words ‘Swan Lake’.
The universal language of ballet brings people together from all over the world. ‘Swan Lake’ is one of the oldest and most prestigious stories. It arouses the image of a fragile swan who transforms into a princess and meets a young prince who instantly falls in love with her, combined with the mysterious power of a lake under the spell of an evil magician.
Artistic Director, David McAllister, revives resident choreographer, Stephen Baynes, rendition of the ballet, paired with the sweet tones of Tchaikovsky’s score. Thus allowing the dancers to even more closely engage with their characters on an emotional level and providing an opportunity to showcase their impressive technique while still remarkably staying true to the original steps.
Principal dancers Adam Bull and Amber Scott lead the ballet in the roles of Prince Siegfried and Odette. Bull’s Tender and self-deprecating personality combined with Scott’s alluring calmness and superb artistry made for a truly spellbinding performance.
Taking on the role of Odette/ Odile requires the ballerina to be able to change her qualities of movement from the floaty and fragile presence of Odette to the sharp and striking features of Odile. Amber Scott’s extension through her entire body showed a power in her rendition of the Black Swan (Odile) that few are able to present. Her 32 fouettes appeared effortless in act 3, as did all Pax de Deux elements, with Bull holding his own beside her, in her version of Odile. But it was Amber’s purity as Odette which left mouths gapping throughout the auditorium.
Despite a few mishaps in timing during act II, the Corps De Ballet performed exceptionally across the whole show in their movements as party goers and the white swans in both lake acts, who attempted to hide Odette from Prince Siegfried.
A highlight though as always is the Pax de Quatre, or dance of the four cygnets. This timeless movement was danced by Sarah Thompson, Eloise Fryer, Jade Wood and Jill Ogai and was perfectly executed and greatly enjoyed by all who were in the theatre. Such a prestigious dance, one that will never change, nor would any great lover of the classics want it to.
The whole production was of immense quality; a timeless beauty that will never die.
Written by Jackie Lymn
'Swan Lake' wraps up their Adelaide season 31 May, before performing Melbourne State Theatre 7-18 June.
