Originally performed in 1992, Matthew Bourne’s revamped production of the ballet classic “Nutcracker!” plays at the King’s Theatre in Glasgow as part of a new UK tour, the first time this particular production has been performed in over a decade. Bourne, as usual, has put his own twist and trademark character into the show. Firmly established as the UK’s most popular and successful choreographer and director, his accolades include a record breaking nine Olivier awards and two Tony awards.
Discussing the appeal of his particular interpretation of the traditional tale which is over 130 years old, he said: “Our version tells a simple story very clearly; its a wish fulfillment story, a story with a heroine (Clara) who has a lot to overcome and eventually wins through. Its about growing up and first love and these are things everyone can relate to.
Bourne sets the scene with the main protagonist Clara living in a Dickensian orphanage with the terrifying, almost panto style, villians Matron and Dr Dross ruling with an iron fist. Clara becomes besotted with a doll gifted to her from wealthy visitors and as night time sets, her beloved doll soon comes to life turning into her handsome saviour whisking her away from the dreary miserable orphanage to the delighful pink and colourful Sweetieland.
The dreary greys and simple tunic costumes of the first Act is a stark contrast to the explosion of pinks, fluffy clouds and extravagant sugar based costumes as Clara arrives in Sweetieland.
Clara meets love rival the beautiful Princess Sugar who charms her man from her as a sickly sweet mean girl. The other include flamenco dancing liquorice allsorts, a dour faced bouncer in the form of a humbug, hyper active gobstoppers and pink fluffy marshmallow girls.
The costumes, colours and contemporary mix of different styles of dance really pushes the boundaries of the traditional ballet, appealing to wide ranging audience of all ages. Of course it is complemented by the incredible musical score from Tchaikovsky which is instantly recognisable.
Nutcracker! will delight and entertain as the characters not only showcase incredible choreography but, as is Bourne signature style, inject the characters with plenty of humour and expression to have the audience chuckling throughout. A wonderful production for all the family.
