Rather spookily, we were transported back a week to "DrumChasters" - same place, same time - during the opening moments of the Russian State Ballet Of Siberia's production of Romeo and Juliet on Wednesday, 23rd March 2011 at the Blackpool Grand Theatre - there was the dramatic percussion, two differently dressed groups of people at war and a central figure akin to the caretaker and of course the love story.This performance of Romeo and Juliet was held during the week of special celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of the saving of the Grand from bulldozers and featured once again, the company's full orchestra, which always makes for a very special evening's entertainment.
This time we were treated to Prokoviev's music, which we think is far more dramatic than the Tchaikovsky suite, which we heard for the company's previous production of Romeo and Juliet at the Grand with those amazing and stunning costumes.
This year's production seemed to concentrate more on the carnival party where Romeo and Juliet first meet. The costumes were simpler than last time - rather reminiscent of 1930s futurism.. (a bit "Flash Gordon"...) - but very effective. The stage lighting had a certain harshness to it which immediately dispelled any thoughts that this was going to be a light fluffy ballet and the fight scenes were very energetic and believable. There was much use of masks and some very eerie Angels of Death. The nurse cut a suitably comic figure as did the court entertainers and quite possibly without meaning it, the image of the Prince at the begining separating the feuding clans had a hint of the Rick Wakemans about it.
Several clever scene changes using curtains helped to give the idea of different venues and the wedding scene was particularly dramatic. Terrific performances from all those involved but especially from Romeo, Juliet, the Nurse and Tibault.
The dancers and musicians have a punishing tour this year - how on earth do they find time for classes and rehearsals, let alone looking after themselves...? -yet they always treat us to a truly dazzling ballet experience and we were not disappointed last night.
Still time to catch up with them - check out your local theatre.
