The Echo, Liverpool
by Peter Grant
I HAD skate expectations about this theatrical concept A ballet on ice being more than a curious idea. It sounds almost panto-esque, yet the moment you see the agile dancers glide across the vast Empire stage you are witnessing a piece of pure magic.
The audience sat mesmerised for more than two-and-a-half hours thanks to these accomplished skaters. The Imperial Ice Stars from Russia are quite simply stunning - each and every one of them.
I recall falling over on the ice a few years ago, losing my balance and that was only on my way to the pub. Here the award-winning crew do all manner of astonishing acrobatic moves that make you want to see an action replay of their dexterity. At times they manage to be so versatile in a circus like way. Some even skated on stilts. Tchaikovsky's ballet is interpreted in a sparkling approach giving it a new lease of life thanks to the awe some theatricals displayed.
Costumes and set designs are faultless - even the glossy programme is a class apart detailing the aim of this creative company. Choreographer Tony Mercer inserts real vibrancy in every single scene. It made TV's Strictly Come Dancing seem like a kindergarten class.
Eamon D'Arcy's set designs work perfectly from the exquisite ballroom sequences to the Swan Lake of the title, where the trees were frosted with snow resembling a huge Christmas card.
Vadim Yarkov is majestic as the prince and Olga Sharutenko and Olena Pytash are grace personified in the re-working of the Odette and Odile roles. Yet this is an ensemble cast and performances throughout are breath-taking. The villain of the ballet, Anton Klykov, was outstanding because he never stood still and dominated the stage during some sequences that were reminiscent of the Winter Olympics.
The Imperial Ice Dancers have played to more than half a million people across the world and this polished production reflects the dedication and professionalism that has become their trademark. They leave many people in the audience open-mouthed at their sophisticated skills and beautiful allround interpretation.
A standing ovation said it all.