“Exquisite” ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Birmingham Royal Ballet’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’ transported me this evening into a realm of timeless beauty and mesmerising grace. A classic tale known by many, spun with lots of ballet magic from BRB (oh my, the en-pointe work!), captivates from the very first moment, as the stage comes alive with the brilliance of Sir Peter Wright’s vision and the exquisite performances of BRB’s talented dancers, of which in this production, their are many.
As the story unfolds, we observe the spellbinding narrative of a cursed princess and the power of true love’s kiss. All performed against a backdrop of Tchaikovsky’s glorious music, played with precision and passion by the acclaimed Royal Ballet Sinfonia, the ballet unfolds like a living fairy tale. One that you could watch, again and again.
The choreography is a testament to Sir Peter Wright’s genius, breathing life into the beloved characters, and bringing depth to their emotions. From the delicate movements of Aurora (Yu Kurihara) to the commanding presence of the wicked fairy Carabosse (Daria Stanciulescu), every step is executed with precision and grace and an immense amount of talent.
But it is ultimately the brilliance of BRB’s dancers that elevates this production to new heights. Their virtuoso performances, filled with passion and precision, left me and fellow audience members, absolutely stunned and in awe!
Lachlan Monaghan dances the role of Prince Florimund with the most stunning grand pas de deux in Act III with Yu Kurihara. A breathtaking display of artistry and grace. Lachlan’s strength and precision are matched by Yu’s ethereal elegance, creating a mesmerising dynamic that unfolds with every movement. Their chemistry onstage is ‘edge-of-your-seat’ viewing, as they effortlessly deliver intricate lifts and delicate turns in some of the best ballet I have ever seen.
And I can’t end this review without mentioning the phenomenal work by Princess Aurora’s friends, Rosanna Ely, Rachele Pizzillo, Olivia Chang Clarke, Reina Fughigami, Tessa Hogge and Sofia Liñares during their dance. What spectacular footwork!
Sleeping Beauty is truly a must-see for ballet lovers and dreamers alike, and when better to see it than this year on its 40th anniversary!
You can watch Sleeping Beauty at Birmingham Hippodrome until 2nd March 2024.
Did you know? BRB dancers pirouette their way through 4000 pairs of pointe shoes each year, with each custom pair made and altered for the perfect fit. If you could help donate to the Pointe Shoe Appeal, the dancers would be incredibly grateful. Donate here: http://brb.org.uk/PointeShoeAppeal