Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella sweeps into Hanley’s Regent Theatre

Jan 26 2011 by Will Harris, Crewe Chronicle

MATTHEW Bourne’s New Adventures dance company returns to the Regent Theatre in Hanley next week with a new production of Cinderella, timed to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the London Blitz.

Set in London during the Second World War, Bourne’s interpretation of Prokofiev’s haunting score has, at its heart, a true wartime romance.

A chance meeting results in a magical night for Cinderella and her dashing young RAF pilot, together just long enough to fall in love before being parted by the Blitz.

The contemporary dance choreographer commissioned the new production as a 50th birthday present to himself.

He said: “It has always been a special project for me and I have for many years now wanted the UK to see the revised version of the production that we made for the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles in 1999. Many years have passed since that production, so I am delighted to be able to present this new production, which incorporates some of the LA revisions and many new ones.

“My grandparents and my mum and dad lived a couple of streets away from each other in the East End throughout the nightly onslaught of The Blitz. Cinderella is also my personal tribute to them.”

The production was first seen in the West End in 1997 but has now been completely revised.

Featuring design by Lez Brotherston, who won an Olivier Award for his original designs, it has a new lighting design by Neil Austin and surround sound designed by Paul Groothuis.

Bourne is also known for spectacular interpretations of classics such as Swan Lake, The Car Man and Nutcracker!.

Cinderella is at the Regent Theatre from February 1-5. Shows start at 8pm, with 2.30pm matinee performances on the Wednesday and Saturday.

Tickets are priced £31.50-£36.50, to book phone the box office on 0844 871 7649 or visit www.ambassadortickets.com/Regent-Theatre.