THE most famous ballet of all time in one of the most beautiful theatres in the country – what could be more romantic than Swan Lake at Bath’s Theatre Royal?

And Moscow City Ballet’s production of this classic love story was certainly dreamy, with exquisite performances from each and every one of the dancers on stage.

Liliya Orekhova was astounding as Odette and Odile, characterising the innocence of the white swan with every delicate plie and pirouette. Positioning herself in lines most onlookers could not even dream of creating, she captivated every single member of the audience from spellbound children to transfixed grandparents.

In stark comparison, her take on the dark and deceitful Odile could not have been more different and it was almost necessary to check the programme to make sure the parts were indeed played by the same dancer. From her demonic facial expression to her long, enticing arm movements, Orekhova’s Odile was as dangerous as it was brilliant.

Talgat Kozhabaev took on the role of Prince Siegfried with power not only visible in his muscular tights but also in his delivery of every lift and every tour en l’air.

Artem Minakov brought a new sense of fun to this version of Swan Lake as the comic jester. At times he encouraged the audience to clap or laugh, providing welcome relief from the intense duets, and a unique participation rarely seen at this level in ballet.

The chorus of swans and cygnets were a magnificent sight to behold as they danced to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score in perfect unison. Accompanied by a cast of world class ballerinas, Moscow City Ballet created a breathtaking spectacle sublime in its group choreography and individual performances alike.

This was quite simply the best, most beautiful version of Swan Lake I have ever seen and one I would quite happily watch over and over again.