Charm is hallmark of sharp show

REVIEW

“Edward Scissorhands”

Lowry Theatre, Salford

IT was snowing inside the Lowry during Matthew Bourne’s touring production.

The front rows were covered in a blizzard of the white stuff as part of the finale, but that failed to halt the standing ovation given to this lavish and loveable performance.

Based on the 1990 box office hit by Tim Burton which featured Johnny Depp in the lead role, “Edward Scissorhands” tells the story of an inventor’s creation — a boy who has scissors for hands.

The modern fairytale sees Edward struggle to fit into 1950s suburban America, gain acceptance and find true love.

Like all good Christmas ballets, this show is filled with cracking choreography, magnificent sets and a sweeping score.

Dizzy

Director and choreographer Matthew Bourne, most famous for his all-male “Swan Lake”, cuts across genres at an often frenetic pace.

From ballet to modern dance, classic Fifties moves and references to “West Side Story”, there is so much happening on stage that it is often dizzying.

But this ambitious outlook produces some memorable moments, such as the moving Topiary Garden scene and the Christmas Ball ensemble.

The production is lighter than the original Gothic-inspired film, and this is particularly true of the two main characters.

Dominic North (Edward) is no Johnny Depp but plays the awkward and gentle character well.

Noi Tolmer, his all-American sweetheart Kim Boggs, warms to her role in act two, especially during their tender final duet.

However, the magic created by Bourne through his dance and direction melted the hearts of all who watched.


BA