With several versions, renditions and variations on the Hans Christian Andersen tale, whilst watching this new Scottish Ballet production of The Snow Queen I realised that I didn’t know much about the original story. But with many variations is it really necessary to know the tale, or better to simply let Scottish Ballet take you on a physical journey of magic and the conflict between good and evil.
Choreographer Christopher Hampson (CEO and Artistic Director of Scottish Ballet) has made some changes to enhance the narrative, culminating in this festive fairytale. With principal dancer Constance Devernay-Laurence (seen previously in The Crucible) leading, it’s a riveting and magical dance that holds the audience’s attention so expertly that we could hear a drum stick drop. The live orchestra in the pits performed the music of Rimsky-Korsakov, so there was a wonderful double performative element to the show.
And with escapist and fantastical settings like the festive market, magical forest, and the circus, it’s almost impossible to not get lost amongst Lez Brotherston’s stunningly transportative set design, that is if you are not already fully entranced by the movements of the dancers. If you’re looking for enchanting, festive fare this December then head quickly to the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh, as it’s only running till 10th December. However, it will be touring around Scotland and showing in Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness till 28th January. But do yourself a favour and get organised so you don’t miss it, as it’s just the right sprinkling of magic needed this Christmas to perk your spirits.
Scottish Ballet’s The Snow Queen is touring Scotland till 28th January, and is showing at the Festival Theatre, Edinburgh till 10th December.
