Ep 86. Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty

Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty is a production by the iconic British choreographer, Matthew Bourne, and is one of the latest editions to the acclaimed show, Great Performances season 38, episode 86. The production is an adaptation of the famous fairy tale, Sleeping Beauty, and features an eclectic mix of classical and contemporary dance styles.

The ballet's opening scene sets the tone for the show, as it takes place in the Edwardian era, and features Princess Aurora's christening. The fairy godmothers arrive and bestow their blessings upon the newborn baby. However, the arrival of Carabosse, the dark fairy, brings chaos and destruction, as she curses Aurora to death before her 21st birthday.

While the original fairy tale ends with Sleeping Beauty being awakened by her prince, Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty takes a dark and unexpected twist. In this production, Sleeping Beauty is not awoken by love's first kiss but remains in a deep, eternal sleep and is discovered by the prince in the year 2011.

Throughout the show, the audience is taken on a journey from the Edwardian period to the modern day. The production features breathtaking sets and costumes, which transport the viewer through different eras.

The choreography in Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty is dynamic and innovative. The show features various dance styles, including classical ballet, contemporary dance, and Broadway-style jazz. The seamless blend of different movements keeps the audience at the edge of their seats throughout the show.

The music for the show is composed by Tchaikovsky, but a new orchestration has been created by Bret Bolton for this production. The music is memorable, and the emotional score heightens the drama and beauty of the ballet.

Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty is a story about desire, passion, and the eternal power of true love. It is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates and loves the art of dance. The production is a beautiful and dark retelling of the classic fairy tale, with a modern twist.

Overall, Great Performances season 38, episode 86: Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty is a truly magnificent production that showcases the very best of modern dance. The show has rightfully won rave reviews from critics and audiences alike and has cemented Matthew Bourne's reputation as one of the most innovative and inspiring choreographers in the world of ballet.