Swan Lake is the world's best-loved ballet, and on 17 March you'll have the chance to be transported into this magical world with a worldwide live cinema screening, direct from the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden.
This is the Royal Ballet at its world-beating best. The sumptuous production by Anthony Dowell honours the original Russian revival version performed in the Mariinsky Theatre, St Petersburg in 1895. There's opulence, dark gothic romance, magic and the breathtaking corps de ballet of 24 swans.
Natalia Osipova and Matthew Golding. photo Alice Pennefather
The dual role of sweet princess Odette (the white swan) and her evil impersonator Odile (the black swan) demands a dancer of verve and stamina. Here, the honour goes to thrilling Russian ballerina Natalia Osipova, who joined the Royal Ballet as a principal in 2013 to huge excitement. Osipova really does appear to fly through the air. You sometimes wonder if her prince, the brilliant Matthew Golding, will be able to stop her floating off.
Ospipova and Golding. Photo Alice Pennefather.
When the orchestra breaks into that familiar Tchaikovsky score and the red velvet curtains swish apart, it's a magical moment – and you won't need to be in Covent Garden on the 17th to get goosebumps. You just need to be at your local cinema for a view that won’t require opera glasses. You even get the interval in which nip out for an ice cream – or a glass of something stronger (depending on how well-prepared your local cinema is).
Swans. Photo Bill Cooper
The performance will be introduced by Darcey Bussell, former Royal Ballet principal and famous Odette. There are also dancer interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. Ballet lovers will be in heaven. First-timers are in for a treat they'll never forget.
LIVE in Cinemas on Tuesday March 17th and Sunday 22nd March.
Darcey Bussell as Odette in 2002. Photo Bill Cooper
To book go to roh.org.uk/cinema
