The 5th Avenue Theatre
Tickets and Information
April 25th - May 13, 2007
Matthew Bourne's breathtaking adaptation of Tim Burton's Edward Scissorhands brings forth the emotional splendor of the beloved film while maintaining a glory all its own. After a long-standing relationship with Tim Burton, Bourne was inspired to see Burton's Frankenstein love story appear on the stage, premiering in London in 2005. Collaboration between Bourne and his company created a performance that not only holds true thematically and musically to Burton's film, but reaches new heights in ways that only dance can.
Bourne's collaborative choreography is incredible to say the least. Combining classical ballet with more modern styles, the dance is original and yet familiar. From the audience, the steps will fall into place as if choreographed in the mind of each audience member yet will take everyone by surprise with their majestic beauty and precision. Emotions come across clearer in this dancing than words could express, as the audience is captivated by the life of Edward and the town members. Including the simplicity of chaos juxtaposed with the complexity of a pas de deux, the company's choreography is spellbinding.
Photo by Bill Cooper
Borrowing mostly from Danny Elfman's original score, Terry Davies develops a hybrid of his own style combined with Elfman's ever-recognizable flair. For those in the audience who are familiar with the film, the score will be one quickly remembered. For those who are new to the story, the flawless transitions from Elfman's to Davies' pieces will feel as though it is one continuous score.
As powerful as dance is, the environment in which it takes place holds as much import as the movements themselves. Meaningful and attention-grabbing costumes are necessary as well as practical and beautiful sets. Lez Brotherston's costume and set designs epitomize the art. Never remaining trapped in the middle of the road, Brotherston ventures to extremes from the historically accurate to the completely surreal. While most of the characters fit the mold of a typical suburban American family of the 1960s, the creations of their imaginations have no boundaries and explore the farthest reaches of fantasy.
The dancing is supported by a subtle and fitting sound design by Paul Groothuis and utterly magical lighting design by Howard Harrison, which utilizes every resource available to create the world in which this spectacular show takes place. The production delves deep into the world of imagination without breaking the wall of the farfetched.
While staying true to the film and yet becoming completely original, Matthew Bourne and Company's Edward Scissorhands is an enchanting show that must be seen. After two years in Europe, Seattle is one of the immediately fortunate cities to receive the gift of Edward Scissorhands.
Review by Nigel Andrews and Lia Morgan
1 comment:
Yes, yes, and more yes! I also saw it (as the reviewers know), and I thought it was simply marvelous for all of the reasons that were mentioned above. Please do yourself a favor and watch this marvelous show.
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