Review: Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre- A Stunning Reimagining of the Classic Tale
- Richard Brown
- May 23
- 3 min read
There are few works in ballet as enduring or emotionally charged as Swan Lake. From the moment the swan dawned curtain rises and Tchaikovsky’s haunting score begins to swell, the audience is drawn into a world of beauty, romance, and mystery. With this productions clever use of contemporary twists and striking set pieces, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake leaps off the stage in this production currently playing at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre. In this review, I’ll take you inside my latest experience with this timeless classic, exploring how the production balanced technical brilliance with emotional depth.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why is Swan Lake a Timeless Classic?
Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake has made it triumphant return during its anniversary tour. With The Next Generation, this production first premiered in 1995, in Sadlers Well in London. If you are like me, and are attending the show with very little knowledge of Swan Lake (or Ballet) in general, here's a quick spoiler free plot summary.
Centered around a lonely Prince, who comes across a powerful Swan who awakens something deep within him. This encounter leads him into a surreal and emotionally charged world that blurs the line between reality and fantasy. As the Prince becomes increasingly obsessed with the Swan, he begins to unravel, torn between the rigid expectations of his royal life and the liberating but dangerous world the Swan represents.
I can already hear you saying; "This is a bold change from the original source material!" and you would be right. Bourne has taken the concept and completely flipped it on its head. And with its extremely strong cast, this powerful rendition made for a wonderful night's entertainment!
The Performances in Swan Lake.
We were delighted to be graced by Ireland's own Stephen Murray in a riveting performance as The Prince. From his beautiful energy, dance technique and facial expressions, he explored the Prince's angest and fear beautifully. He was joined by the equally talented Rory Macleod as The Swan and Stranger, who equally matched Murray. His power and command of the stage made it very hard to watch anyone around him. His performance at the Ball in Act II was a crowd pleaser. The strongest moments of this show was when Macleod and Murray interacted. It became a battle of leaps and turns, both complimenting each other beautifully! The potency of their performances would have revolutionary 30 years ago, and it continues to be today.
Katrina Lyndon gave another wonderful performance with her restrained yet forceful portrayal of the Queen. Her dancing ability was also impeccable, with beautiful lines, all while staying in character. The regal Queen was juxtaposed by Bryony Wood as the Sassy, and sometimes bratty Girlfriend, who made this performance accessible to all, with her hilarious characteristics, especially in the ballet! The Only Way Is Essex's vibe of her costuming and performance won over the audience instantly. It should be noted that Wood was not only a comedic triumph, but also a fabulous dancer.
The tour de force was, however, the male swan ensemble. Usually performed by women on pointe, this all male chorus provided power, athleticism and strength. Dawned in only feathered white trousers, the precision was clean and leaps and kicks high. It really left you gasping for breath at the beauty and skill displayed.
As I left the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake left me genuinely moved. It’s not just a retelling, it’s a reimagining with purpose. The choreography was visceral, the performances deeply committed, and the emotional stakes felt real from start to finish. Whether you’re a ballet devotee or completely new to dance, this production offers something powerful. I left thinking about the theme and decisions made, especially in relation to the relationship between the Swan and Man, and that's what I love about theatre!
Ticket Information and Show Times for Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake in Dublin.
Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake runs from the 20th-24th of May 2025 at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin. Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office on +353016777999 or through their website https://www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie/show/matthew-bournes-swan-lake/
Location: Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin.
Date of Review: 21st of May
Star Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Disclaimer: I was invited to review this show as part of the Press Night on May 21st, 2025 by the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre. All views are my own and we're not influenced by the invite.
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