Classic tale is a joy to watch

Romeo and Juliet, Palace Theatre, Manchester

THIS classic Shakespearean tale of star-crossed lovers brought to the stage by the English National Ballet is a joy from beginning to end.

It was choreographed specifically for them by legendary dancer Rudolf Nureyev in 1977 and it is easy to see why it is still proving popular over 30 years later thanks to his inventive choreography and sumptuous set and costumes.

Along with classical ballet, Nureyev was influenced by a range of contemporary dance styles and and Hollywood musicals, and this is apparent from the start.

The audience is greeted with scene after scene of eye-catching and dramatic scenarios, from bustling market dances to full-scale sword fights and an intimate balcony scene, and it is a joy to see how each act of such a familiar story is interpreted.

There is a real filmic quality to the production, which is perfectly accompanied by a lush, orchestral score composed by Sergei Prokofiev and conducted by Gavin Sutherland.

The choreography combines traditional ballet sequences with flashes of modern steps and movements which help create a more relevant and modern performance.

Senior principal ballerina Daria Klimentova plays Juliet beautifully, often stealing the scene from her Romeo played by Vadim Muntagirov.

Special mention must go to the charming and cheeky Yat-Sen Chang, who played Romeo’s pal Mercutio, and Laura Hussey as Juliet’s frisky nurse, who both proved to be audience favourites.