Review: Coppelia, performed by the English National Ballet, Bristol Hippodrome 4-8 November 2014

For the uninitiated, this is the story of Swanilda and Franz, whose courtship gets into trouble when Franz finds himself beguiled by a beautiful stranger on Dr Coppelius’ balcony. Annoyed by her boyfriend’s roving eye, Swanhilda and her friends find their way into the crazy toymaker’s home, only to discover that her love rival is nothing more than a life-sized doll. Swanilda switches places with the doll and Dr Coppelius is overjoyed when he succeeds in bringing her to life. However, the poor man is left heartbroken when the truth is revealed.

Without exception the talented troupe of dancers were expressive enough to make the most of this peculiarly comic tale without become too focused on the dark side of the sinister doll maker, who in this production is brilliantly presented by Michael Coleman as an eccentric old fool.

Principal dancers Yonah Acosta (nephew of Carlos) and Shiori Kase certainly deserve special praise for their efforts, and Shiori in particular was outstanding in her depiction of the doll brought to life.

The third act is a joyful celebration of everything you should look for in a ballet, tying all elements together with a grace that results in an ultimately uplifting night out.

Delibes score was beautifully played by the ballet’s own orchestra, conducted by Tom Seligma, who well achieved their aim of achieving the highest musical as well as dancing standards.

There is nothing particularly new about this family-friendly production; but there is certainly also nothing wrong with a traditional show. With its glorious costumes and fancy set this production of Coppelius got everything it takes to get budding ballerinas’ hearts aflutter (although the toymaker’s house did seem to be wobbling precariously in the first act!).

Coppelia continues its run at the Bristol Hippodrome until Saturday, November 8.