Expert Review: Why The Red Shoes Is Visually Stunning

4.6
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Matthew Bourne's The Red Shoes is a masterpiece of contemporary dance theatre that brings Hans Christian Andersen's tragic fairy tale to vivid life. This visually spectacular production combines Bourne's signature storytelling style with breathtaking choreography, creating an emotionally rich experience that captures both the beauty and darkness of the original story.

What Makes It Extraordinary

  • Matthew Bourne's Vision: The acclaimed choreographer's unique style transforms the classic tale into contemporary dance theatre gold.
  • Visual Spectacle: Stunning costume design and set pieces that bring the magical and tragic elements to life on stage.
  • Emotional Storytelling: Dance that tells a complete narrative without words, conveying deep emotion through movement alone.
  • Musical Score: A haunting and beautiful soundtrack that perfectly complements the choreographic storytelling.

Perfect For

Dance and ballet enthusiasts, fans of Matthew Bourne's previous works, families with children 8+, anyone interested in visual storytelling, and theatregoers seeking something uniquely beautiful. The wordless format makes it accessible to international audiences.

Everything You Need to Know

The Tragic Beauty of Dance

Based on Hans Christian Andersen's dark fairy tale, The Red Shoes tells the story of a young woman who puts on a pair of magical red shoes that compel her to dance continuously. Unable to remove them, she must dance through joy and sorrow, love and loss, until the tragic conclusion. Matthew Bourne's adaptation transforms this into a powerful meditation on obsession, art, and the price of pursuing one's dreams.

What to Expect

  • A complete story told entirely through dance and movement
  • Magical transformation sequences as the shoes take control
  • Stunning visual effects and costume changes
  • Emotional depth that explores themes of passion and sacrifice
  • A haunting conclusion that stays with audiences long after the curtain falls

Choreography & Visual Design

  • Signature Bourne Style: Dramatic storytelling through contemporary dance and classical ballet
  • The Red Shoes: Spectacular costume design that makes the magical shoes a character in their own right
  • Set Design: Transformative staging that creates multiple worlds and moods
  • Lighting Effects: Dramatic lighting that enhances the magical and tragic elements
  • Company Dancing: Ensemble work that creates a rich world around the central story
  • Solo Performances: Powerful individual performances that convey deep emotion

About Matthew Bourne: The internationally acclaimed choreographer behind Swan Lake (with male swans), Cinderella, and numerous other groundbreaking dance productions.

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Tuesday - Saturday: 7:30pm
  • Wednesday & Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Sunday: 3:00pm
  • Monday: No performances

Getting There

  • Tube: Angel Station (10 minutes walk)
  • Bus: Multiple routes to Rosebery Avenue
  • Parking: Limited street parking available

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible seating available
  • Audio description for visually impaired patrons
  • Hearing loop system installed
  • Touch tours available for selected performances