Review Rating:

Posted on 11th December 2008                      

Matthew Bourne's enchanting version of Tim Burton's Classic, 'Edward Scissorhands' returns, at last, to the London stage. And just in time it would seem. With scarves being wrapped ever tighter and the nights growing ever icier, what better time to snuggle up in the cosy, yet suitably grand, Saddler's Wells theatre for a slice of snowy storytelling.

Assembled from Bourne's own company, New Adventures, the cast bring the world of Burton's imagination to life with the same zany charm and idiosyncratic kookiness found in the original 1990 film. However, this is not simply a screen-to-stage adaptation, the likes of which have seen Grease and Dirty Dancing made into box-office busting dance-icals. What allows this production to stand apart from the film can be found in Bourne's re-working of the tale to suit his medium.

An ensemble piece through and through, Bourne creates no end of opportunities for dazzling set pieces. A bizarre garden barbecue, a Christmas party and the excellent ballet de suburbia introduces to the most quintessential of American neighbourhoods. Accompanied by Terry Davies' wonderfully augmented version of Danny Elfman’s original score, the ensemble move with cinematic deftness from Edward's introduction to the community, through to his inevitable expulsion and the tragedy of young love.

Whilst the ensemble moments sparkle and Lez Brotherston’s design never fails to enchant, there are elements of the original story that, whilst not essential for us to get the overall point (pun intended), are lost in favour of more spectacular ensemble moments. The relationship between Edward (the suitably adorable Matthew Malthouse) and Kim (Kerry Biggin) is developed in somewhat of a rush in order to be ready for the final duet. The audience is, ultimately, left wanting to feel more of a sense of tragedy in the closing moments. That said, the final duet is nothing if not a spectacular masterclass in how to dance with five two-foot blades on each hand and maintain a hypnotising grace none-the-less.

This is a family show with a lot of appeal to those both familiar and unfamiliar with the film. A little bit of escapist magic amidst the prevailing gloom (both financial and meteorological) that is sure to melt the iciest of hearts.

Oh, and you might want to bring a brolly for the cutain call!

Written by Simon Eves

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