Bourne has accomplished the feat of allowing balletomanes to retain other viewings of a more traditional “Swan Lake” in the memory, especially with regard to elements of the majestic music by Tschaikovsky. At the same time, he introduces dramatic themes that both diverge from the narrative of the original story and employ the music in surprising ways. The Swan becomes the Stranger in street attire (leather pants and jacket) at the Royal Ball in Act Three, initially deceiving the Prince as to his identity.

Read More MATTHEW BOURNE’S SWAN LAKE at The Kennedy Center by Luella Christopher