Festival Theatre, Malvern – 26th November 2023
Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau
5*****
Ballet par excellence The Nutcracker graces Malvern Theatres stage once more, so “it’s beginning to feel a lot like…”.
From the opening notes it was obvious that the orchestra was top notch, lead by the capable baton of a master conductor. They drove the music along at just the right pace and the instrumental balance was perfect – every nuance of the exceptional score was crystal clear. Tchaikovsky would have been very proud of tonight’s performance.
The story is a strange one (I won’t lie) involving a family gathering around the tree on Christmas Eve, presents (naturally) and a child’s imagination running wild producing rats (with their own King) having battles with gingerbread soldiers, and an enchanted Nutcracker doll (in human form) whisking Clara off to a magical land of sweets whereupon the Sugar Plum Fairy orders a series of dances to entertain the guests… I’m thinking too much sugar before bedtime. But, in truth, the music and the dancing are the real magical elements – so just let yourself enter into the ballet’s world (think Willy Wonka on Strictly).and you’ll love it.
That it’s a massively popular work was amply demonstrated by the full house and fact that the programmes had sold out during the earlier matinee! A fantastic thing for the company and theatre but, unfortunately, it has meant that I don’t have the cast list so can’t praise the incredibly talented performers by name.
Our prima ballerina (playing Clara) gave an impressive performance, giving us a romantic and stylish reading with spectacular touches. Grace, control and beauty in equal measure! Her leading man, the titular Nutcracker, was also exceptionally strong, giving her the perfect support. They made an attractive duo on the stage.
The first half was excellent but the second half was where it really took off, with all the tunes you love to the fore – indeed, the chap next to me was humming along for much of the second half! This ballet has a lot of humour in it – for instance from the frolicking children on hobby horses and the Chinese Dance (Tea) with some very lively steps perfectly in time with the orchestra. Wonderful. The Spanish Dance (evoking chocolate) was sumptuous and muscular, befitting the Iberian flamenco sensibilities. But The Turkish Dance was the absolute star of the show – with the lady ballerina bringing audible gasps with her mind boggling suppleness and strength. An exceptionally talented dancer and a shining star.
The costumes were elegant in what looked to me like a traditional reading of the piece and it was all the better for it – why mess with perfection?
Sadly, I don’t get to attend many ballets and tonight’s performance has made me wonder why. I was blown away with the beauty of it all and will keep a close eye out for the next one. I’d encourage everyone to do the same. An absolutely spellbinding performance that was a joy to behold – not sure why, but I’m afraid the Quality Street took a hit when I got home. A treat for all the senses. Bravo to everyone involved.