Mesmerizing Artistry: “Edward Scissorhands” Takes the Stage at the Wales Millennium Centre

Written by on 20th March 2024

Last night’s performance of “Edward Scissorhands” at the Wales Millennium Centre was a breath taking fusion of visual spectacle and emotive dance, captivating the audience from start to finish. As the curtains lifted to reveal a meticulously crafted set, the stage transformed into a mesmerizing dreamscape that perfectly encapsulated the whimsical yet haunting world of Tim Burton.

EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, , Original Story – Tim Burton, Director and Choreographer – Mathew Bourne, Designer – Lez Brotherston, Lighting – Howard Harrison, New Adventures, Theatre Royal, Plymouth,2023, UK, Credit: Johan Persson – www.perssonphotography.com /

The set design was a marvel in itself, transporting the audience into a realm where Gothic architecture seamlessly melded with the quaint charm of suburbia. Twisted, spire-like houses loomed in the background, casting eerie shadows over the stage, to the mysterious creators house, where Edward first made his appearance. Every detail, from the typical American suburban facades to the intricate props scattered throughout, spoke volumes about the attention to detail and the commitment to capturing Burton’s distinctive aesthetic.

But it was the dancing that truly stole the show, as each movement unfolded with a fluidity and grace that seemed to defy the laws of physics. Liam Mower, portraying Edward Scissorhands, moved with a haunting elegance, his scissor-like hands carving through the air with precision and purpose. Every step, every gesture was imbued with a sense of longing and isolation, drawing the audience deeper into his world with each passing moment.

Opposite him, Ashley Shaw portraying Kim danced with a radiant energy that complemented Edward’s sombre demeanour. Their chemistry was a delicate balance of tension and tenderness, as they moved together in perfect harmony, their bodies speaking volumes where words failed to suffice.

The ensemble cast moved with a synchronicity that bordered on the ethereal, each dancer bringing their own unique flair to the stage while seamlessly blending into the larger tapestry of movement. From the whimsical antics of the neighbourhood children to the poignant duets that spoke of love and loss, every dance sequence was a masterclass in storytelling, evoking a range of emotions from laughter to tears.

And hovering above it all was the haunting score by Danny Elfman, which disappointingly was not performed live by an orchestra. However the music swelled and soared, underscoring the emotional depth of each scene with a richness and complexity that added another layer of depth to the performance.

As the final curtain fell and the audience rose to their feet in thunderous applause, it was clear that “Edward Scissorhands” at the Wales Millennium Centre was more than just a dance performance – it was a transcendent experience that left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to witness it.

EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, , Original Story – Tim Burton, Director and Choreographer – Mathew Bourne, Designer – Lez Brotherston, Lighting – Howard Harrison, New Adventures, Theatre Royal, Plymouth,2023, UK, Credit: Johan Persson – www.perssonphotography.com /


Current track

Title

Artist

Current show

GTFM

16:00 18:59

Current show

GTFM

16:00 18:59

Background