Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake (2025)

Matthew Bourne’s legendary Swan Lake returns to Milton Keynes Theatre this week in a spectacular 30th anniversary revival that proves why it remains the most successful dance theatre production of all time.

Still famous for its revolutionary twist—replacing the traditional female corps de ballet with a bare-chested, menacing male ensemble—this new tour introduces a bold generation of New Adventures talent. Rising stars Harrison Dowzell, Jackson Fisch and Rory Macleod alternate as the Swan/Stranger, alongside James Lovell, Leonardo McCorkindale and Stephen Murray as The Prince. Their dynamic presence breathes new life into a production that’s thrilling, emotive and deeply poignant.

Award-winning designers Lez Brotherston (set and costumes) and Paule Constable (lighting) deliver a visually arresting backdrop to The Prince’s tragic descent into mental turmoil, echoing his struggle with repression, fractured family ties and dreamlike hallucinations.

Despite the dark themes, the show remains witty and uplifting, thanks to moments of unexpected humour—don’t miss the corgi on wheels, the club scene with a lacklustre stripper, or the girlfriend’s chaotic disruption of a stuffy theatre performance.

Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, untouched and still utterly stirring, soars through every scene. Liam Mower (one of the original Billy Elliots) shines as The Prince, delivering a performance brimming with vulnerability and innocence. His chemistry with Matthew Ball as the Swan is mesmerising, full of tension, longing and power.

The ensemble’s synchronised movement—their swooping arms, craning necks and powerful stomps—evoke the primal beauty of a swan’s grace and fury. It’s no surprise audiences continue to flock to this timeless masterpiece.

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this reimagined Swan Lake remains an unforgettable experience. It’s a rare chance to witness dance theatre at its most daring and emotionally resonant. Don’t miss it.