The Morning Star, UK
by KARL DALLAS
NO doubt classical balletomanes will hate The Imperial Ice Stars version of this ballet, but, since I'm no sur-les-pointes fanatic, I have to confess that I loved every slip and slide of their Swan Lake on Ice.
Nor is it a put-down when I say that it reminded me of my days with Billy Smart's Circus. Nureyev's gravity-defying leaps inspired a similar shock of recognition when I saw him in Le Corsaire. Bradford is a skating-conscious city, with a well-patronised if rather shabby rink and it was a fascinating experience to see the audience's enthusiasm for the superb technique of this wonderful Russian company.
With over 25 world-class skaters, it's hard to select favourites, but Vadim Yarkov and Olga Sharutenko in the lead roles of Prince Siegfried and the white swan princess Odette have got to claim the credit for combining athletic brilliance with sheer visual beauty. And, when Sharutenko took off her skates and reappeared on her toes, it became obvious that she's not merely a great skater but also a remarkable dancer.
The only let-down was the music. It was good to hear the virtually complete Tchaikovsky score. Obviously, economics and the need to extend the stage over the orchestra pit ruled out a live accompaniment, but the sound lacked the presence that modern recording techniques can provide. But, if this company comes down your way, don't look to see if they've got snow on their boots.
Book as soon as possible for a brilliant visual experience.