The Red Shoes is a double Olivier Award-winning dance drama created by Sir Matthew Bourne with his critically acclaimed New Adventures company.

Based on the same-named 1948 film and the original Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, it tells the heartbreaking story of a young woman named Victoria Page, her obsession with dancing, and the sacrifices she is willing to make to become a great dancer.

Set not long after World War Two, the story concerns a production created by ballet impresario Boris Lermontov and his young stars - ballerina Victoria and composer Julian Craster. Lermontov commissions a new ballet version of The Red Shoes tale, in which a magical pair of shoes force the wearer to dance until they die. But then life starts to imitate art, as love and obsession cause a rift between the trio...

Bourne’s production comes complete with an ingenious device - a rotating proscenium arch - that spins the stage around, allowing the audience to see what’s happening not only from the front but also behind the scenes.

Imagination and creativity are in plentiful supply in this impressive production, as New Adventures show why their reputation for excellence precedes them. The stylish storytelling is enhanced by a romantic score adapted from the music of Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann. Lavish costumes, splendid sets, clever lighting and the smart use of cinematic techniques transports the audience back to the post-war period. I particularly enjoyed the Monte Carlo-inspired beach scene, complete with synchronised dance movements, elaborate lifts, giant beachballs and bathing beauties in retro stripes!

The scenes are fabulously fast paced, with every dance - some energetic, others intense and intimate - working not only to advance the storyline but also to evidence the poise and power of each and every member of the New Adventures team.

In the lead roles, Cordelia Braithwaite (Victoria), Reece Causton (Lermontov) and Leonardo McCorkindale (Julian) generate some wonderfully emotional moments. Braithwaite, especially, gives an exquisite performance, brilliantly conveying Victoria’s conflicting feelings as her love for Julian clashes with her need to pursue her dancing career.

The Red Shoes is perhaps one of Sir Matthew Bourne’s finest creations. A compelling story of obsession, ambition and sacrifice, its sense of tragedy and loss is artfully balanced by witty characterisations and well-timed moments of humour. Whether you’re a long-time fan of dance or a newcomer to the art form, this is a show that has plenty to offer - a fact ably supported by the roaring applause and standing ovation at the end of the evening.

Be sure to catch this entrancing production before it dances away into the night...

Five stars

Sir Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes was reviewed by Sue Hull on Tuesday 17 March at Birmingham Hippodrome, where it shows until Saturday 21 March.