Happy New Year everyone!
At the end of last year, I picked my top five shows of 2015, so I thought I’d do the same again.
Akram Khan’s Giselle (English National Ballet) – I was honoured to be at the world premier of this ground-breaking, haunting and beautiful production. I’ve no doubt it’ll be on lots of other people’s lists too.
The Red Shoes (New Adventures) – Matthew Bourne’s highly anticipated production of the iconic film did not disappoint. It’s coming back to The Lowry in July this year so I hope to see it again!
NOTHING (Royal Exchange Young Company) – The young company’s production of a dark, dystopian story was so mature and compelling I felt like I was watching professional actors. I was also thrilled to see a quote from my original Manchester Theatre Awards review featured in the Exchange brochure, promoting the play’s return this season!
Neon Sonnets (Manchester After Hours collaboration) – this very special event saw musicians and singers from the Royal Northern College of Music team up with actors and presenters to give a promenade performance around the John Rylands library, all in tribute to Shakespeare. It was totally unique and drew big crowds – I was very lucky to squeeze in!
Giselle (Royal Ballet) – seeing Marianela Nunez in my favourite ballerina role was an absolute highlight of 2016. (As was dinner in the Royal Opera House’s super swanky Crush Room beforehand!)
2016 was a big year for ballet and dance – narrowly missed off the list were the National Ballet of China’s exquisite Peony Pavilion, and English National Ballet’s Nutcracker. On a personal note, 2016 also saw two new jobs for me, plus an amazing holiday in Paris and a new start for my comedy group.
I’m looking forward to seeing more shows in 2017 and blogging about them too. Keep reading and keep smiling folks and I’ll see you soon! xx
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