Edward Scissorhands, Matthew Bourne Review

Written by Emmie for Theatre & Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

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Matthew Bourne’s pulsating dance technique brings the story of Edward Scissorhands to life once again on a brand new UK tour, 9 years after its last major revival in 2014. The plot flows closely alongside Tim Burton’s infamous 1990 film but with a dose of some new introductions to the narrative, most notably the Frankenstein-inspired prologue. It sets the pace of the production well before unveiling Edward and the real story (and the one most audiences will know) begins.

Edward Scissorhands is a theatrical masterpiece in its own right, Bourne’s distinctive style breathes some brilliant new perspectives on the way audiences access dance, ensuring their reputation for over 20 years continues to go from strength to strength. This is a beautiful presentation of an outsider who gets swept up by suburbia life and becomes quite the celebrity before his differences force him back to his life of solitude. Edward’s desperation to fit into the norm oozes out of this dance theatre production and some brilliant additions of comedy help lift the tone of this story. The families that live in the suburbia add new dynamics to the piece, both nuclear and same sex. I feel like as much as this was about Edward’s story we also saw a bit of their own too. 

The New Adventures company is awe-inspiring to watch. In this production alone, 16 of the 34 dancers involved in the production came through the organisation’s Talent Development programme. As well as showcasing their focus on nurturing young talent, former New Adventures stars have returned to the roles of Mums and Dads. We see these dancers execute some lengthy group routines, with scenes like The Boggs’ Barbecue and Christmas in Hope showcasing the crisp choreography that this company is most known for. These exceptionally talented performers are mesmerising in allowing their movement do the storytelling. 

Read more: The Midnight Bell, Matthew Bourne Review

Liam Mower encapsulates Edward just perfectly. He uses his body language and facial expressions to portray the innocence and bewilderment that his character goes through. Mower has some beautiful intricacy in his dancing that you can’t help but lock eyes with him for the entirety of the show. Alongside him as Kim Boggs is the enchanting Ashley Shaw. Shaw is equally as perfect, she plays a great portrayal of teen ideals and friendship cliques before realising the importance of your morals. Both are recognisable names to New Adventures performances and we know why. Collectively this pair of dancers captivate everybody who gets the opportunity to see them perform with their natural ability to portray their characters and have this undeniable chemistry with one another as they navigate their way to one another eventually.

Lez Brotherston’s set and costume design are captivating. They work together to offer the fresh, innovative twist that Bourne executes confidently with his work while also staying true to the Tim Burton aesthetic tone. Joined by new arrangements built on Danny Elfman’s unforgettable score - Edward Scissorhands is a dance theatre sensation!

Edward Scissorhands is touring the UK until 25 May 2024.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆