WE really are very lucky here in the West Country to have such an amazing venue as the Bristol Hippodrome, attracting famous Companies from around the world to perform on its historic stage time after time.

Last night was no exception, as the English National Ballet brought Nureyef’s famous version of the classic ballet ‘Romeo and Juliet’ here as part of its UK tour.

Romeo and Juliet is one of the wonders of ballet, with both a story and score so popular that it never fails to impress. This particular production, which was first directed by the late, great Rudolf Nureyef is so full of pomp and passion that it is especially breathtaking – which it needs to be at nearly three hours long (with two intervals) – and fulfils the need to engage the audience fully from start to finish.

The love affair between Romeo and Juliet is set in soft relief against a backdrop of aggressive family feuds and an excess of colour, pomp and posturing, and Isaac Hernández and Alina Cojocaru were both simply perfect in their debut appearances in their respective roles.

Also worthy of a special mention is Cesar Corrales (also in his debut performance in the role) as a peculiarly comic and breathtakingly energetic Mercutio, but in fact the entire ensemble is a visual feast to behold; there is plenty of challenging choreography and I did not see anyone put a foot wrong.

As is to be expected from a ENO production, there is no expense spared on the set and costumes are fantastically flamboyant – how the Montagu ladies manage to find their feet amid the acres of flowing fabric I’ll never know!

Of course the live score from the amazing orchestra only adds to the drama. Superbly led by Gavin Sutherland, the musicians skilfully manage to bring the familiar refrains to life.

The English National Ballet: Romeo And Juliet is at the Bristol Hippodrome until Saturday, October 17. Visit www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome for tickets and more details.