When it comes to fairy tales, we have often heard the story a thousand times before. Yet, when going to see a New Adventures production, every tale that you thought you knew, gets a whole new lease of life and magic, which is certainly the case for their current production of Sleeping Beauty, currently playing at Sadler’s Wells Theatre until January 15th 2023.
Having been a fan of Matthew Bourne for over ten years, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to attend the press night of Sleeping Beauty, as it reawakens celebrating 10 years since its premiere at Sadler’s Wells when it became the fastest-selling production in the company’s history.
Having mesmerised international audiences around the globe, I was eager to be transported into yet another mystical masterpiece by the company of New Adventures, who undoubtedly proved once again why they are an unstoppable world-class force to be reckoned with.
What I love most about a New Adventures production is that you feel as though you are coming home. While each piece within their repertoire is extremely unique in its own way, you can’t help but feel welcomed and invited back into a world of imagination, innovation, and ingenious art. A world where you are encouraged to view stories through a fresh new lens and have the freedom to fall in love with unforgettable characters and plots all over again. The show, which transports you from the late Edwardian era to the modern day, is a sensational whirlwind of gothic delights, jam-packed with striking and slick choreography, delightful humour, sublime costumes, and set. The standout, however, is the remarkable storytelling delivered by every member of the company, without a single word being uttered on stage.
So often in theatre, we expect showstopping songs, or dazzling special effects, but what New Adventures present without fail every time they take to the stage, is a skill that can not be bought, yet is the key to any truly triumphant production; the ability to successfully tell a story.If you have never seen a New Adventures production, I have just one question for you, when have you booked tickets for?! If you are in a position to snap up a ticket, be sure to head to Sadler’s Wells to witness this spectacular, sensational spin on the beloved fairy-tale Sleeping Beauty.
This show would make the perfect festive treat for yourself, or someone else!
Review by Adam Tipping
Rating: ★★★★★
