Theatre Review: Birmingham Royal Ballet - The Sleeping Beauty, Bristol Hippodrome

Summary

Rating: ★★★★

Running Dates: Thursday 18th April - Saturday 20th April 2024

Where to see it: Bristol Hippodrome 

Duration: 2 hrs 50 minutes (including interval)

Keywords: Elegant, Ethereal, Captivating

Review

Watching the conductor in action was a real highlight, although, after 3 hours, I still do not understand the difference between each hand swish. I don’t suppose many people do…which explains why he was applauded each time he re-entered the theatre!

My first experience of a ballet production! This production is rather different to those I usually attend and review. However, I will recant my experience as a total ballet-newbie!

Not knowing what to expect, I turned to my trusty programme to learn more about the performance and its history. The tale of Sleeping Beauty appears first, in its earliest versions, in the 1300s. The story has been shaped over the years, by Charles Perrault in the 1600s and, of course, Brother’s Grimm in the 1800s. 

The ballet adaptation of The Sleeping Beauty first premiered on stage in 1890, with this specific version premiering in 1984. The production brings together the great minds of Peter Wright, Marius Petipa and, of course, Pyotr Illyich Tchaikovsky.

Speaking of Tchaikovsky, his music was performed beautifully by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia. Not only had I never seen a ballet performance, I also had not seen a live orchestra (really exposing myself here!) and, as suspected, I was utterly blown away. Each and every member of the orchestra - from the double bassist to the delicate xylophonist - performed incredibly well. 

Watching the conductor in action was a real highlight, although, after 3 hours, I still do not understand the difference between each hand swish. I don’t suppose many people do…which explains why he was applauded each time he re-entered the theatre!

If you can divert your eyes away from the orchestra, you will be equally as captivated by the intricate set design. Every inch of the stage was dressed, the space felt three-dimensional and immersive. The design truly gave an 1800s feel, helped, of course, by the classic interior of the Bristol Hippodrome.

It will be of no surprise to hear that the dancers are truly magnificent - they are at the top of their game, demonstrating immeasurable physical and mental strength. Throughout group dances, there was an obvious chemistry and synchronicity between the dancers that cannot be understated.

Momoko Hirata gives a stunning portrayal of Princess Aurora; she has an ability to move her body as if it is weightless, as if she is defying gravity. The ability to portray effortlessness, whilst undertaking some of the most physically taxing movements, must be a talent in and of itself.

It is probably fair to say that the story of The Sleeping Beauty took a back seat at times, whilst the dancers focused on showcasing their talents. It can also be difficult to follow a story which is told only through the medium of dance. However, there are subtle actions and gestures (helpfully explained in the programme!) which convey an entire language.

Overall, the performance is a real delight. It is, perhaps, unsurprising that the performance has been on-stage for over 100 years. I have no doubt it will continue to be showcased for many years to come.

The performance is only showing at the Bristol Hippodrome until Saturday 20th April! If you do not manage to grab a ticket in time, keep your eyes peeled for Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Cinderella, coming in 2025!

To get tickets for the show click here

We were kindly gifted these tickets in exchange for a review.

Written by Chelsea Bartlett