Hull New Theatre – 26th February 2026
Reviewed by Anne Walker
5*****
There is something genuinely magical about seeing a classic like Swan Lake at the theatre.
The Varna International Ballet brings a production that feels like a love letter to the traditional stage, focusing on pure storytelling and that unmistakable atmosphere of a grand evening out at the theatre. The vision comes from Artistic Director Sergei Bobrov, a decorated choreographer who has spent years building this company into an international success, while the music is guided by the experienced hand of conductor Azat Maksutov. Together, they have created a performance that reminds you of why this story has endured for so long. It is stunning, dramatic, and visually lush.
The production had a nostalgic charm, especially in the beginning scene when we see the pages of the Prince’s book opening on the screen backdrop. It creates a perfect Gothic lakeside vibe that shifts beautifully into the opulence of a palace ballroom. But it is the costumes that steal the show visually and pull everything together beautifully. There is a specific kind of stage magic in seeing a sea of white, feathered tutus drifting across a dark stage, it is the quintessential image of the ballet and it looked stunning under the lights. While the story is told entirely through movement, the drama really pulls you in as the conflict between the characters deepens.
The performances are packed with skill. The lead, playing the dual role of Odette and Odile is a wonder, she captures the fragile grace of the White Swan perfectly, but her turn as the sharp, cunning Black Swan is a total highlight. When she hit those famous spins, the energy in the room was electric. The Prince brings a great, youthful energy to the stage with leaps that he made look effortless and the villainous Baron von Rothbart had a commanding presence that added a real sense of danger to the lakeside scenes. The “Dance of the Cygnets” is always a highlight and was so sharp and synchronized it practically brought the house down.
What really elevates the whole experience is the live orchestra. Hearing Tchaikovsky’s score booming from the pit makes such a massive difference, something that a recording just cannot replicate. It is a heartfelt, professional production which I would definitely recommend that brings world-class international talent right to our doorstep in Hull.