REVIEW: Matthew Bourne's The Red Shoes At The Liverpool Empire

I have fond memories of watching the iconic film "The Red Shoes" with my mother as a small child, so I was delighted to be invited to watch the ballet production by Matthew Bourne at yesterday's press night performance at The Liverpool Empire. The show was breathtaking in its choreography, the score, the set. As a fan of Bourne's work, I was utterly mesmerised by the show.

Keeping it true to the Academy award-winning film yet adding new twists which were down to the humour that weaved itself through the performance as well as the dynamic interchangeable set, I felt as though I was actually watching a movie and at other times an observer watching the play within a play. The sensitivity of the show was heartwarming. This is an extraordinary adaptation of the classic Powell and Pressburger film. The score was magnificent being arranged by Terry Davies and based on the music of composer Bernard Herrmann.

There is no doubt that this is a masterpiece, choreographed and directed by a master: Matthew Bourne consistently breathes fresh life into the classic movies and beloved tales of a bygone year. He connects the audience so beautifully with Victoria Page's story (played by Ashley Shaw). We witness her passion for dance and spy on her journey to become the greatest dancer in the world whilst getting caught up in the crossfire of two men who fuel her desire and passion 

Prepare to be blown away by the sheer brilliance of the choreography, the insanely impressive set and the sheer talent of the dance company. You will journey with Victoria Page (Ashley Shaw) as she and the cast traverse the globe with exquisite scenes from London, Monte Carlo and  VilleFrance-Sur-Mer.

Credit to the whole dance company, The New Adventures orchestra for playing the score so beautifully, to Paul Constable who was responsible for the most amazing lighting, to Lez Brotherston for the incredible set and costume design. We salute you Sir Matthew Bourne. You've done it again by creating a wonderful piece of musical theatre, making ballet and dance available to the masses.

The show is on at The Empire for one week only and concludes on Saturday 1st July. Get your tickets here to watch this exquisite show of love, obsession and possession.

PR Rating: Shiny satin red 5 stars