Following the success of previous classical productions such as Cinderella and Swan Lake, the English National Ballet returns to the Royal Albert Hall with Kenneth MacMillan’s timeless adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty. Guillermo Nazara chats with one of its prima ballerinas to learn about the piece’s highlights and how it will put audiences under a spell they won’t wish to wake from.
How does it feel to be starring in one of the most popular ballets ever written?
The role of the Lilac Fairy in Sleeping Beauty is one of the dream roles as a dancer. I am very grateful for this opportunity and very excited to perform.
What makes this piece unique in comparison to other ballets you’ve performed?
Sleeping Beauty is one of the very best classical ballets. It’s simply beautiful and elegant. The beautiful music from Tchaikovsky, choreography by Sir Kenneth MacMillan, and the stunning costumes and design make the whole theatre transform into its wondrous world,
This piece has been performed countless times and in countless versions. Does its success make taking on the principal role a more daunting task?
I just feel very honoured to perform an important role in one of the most historical ballets. Respecting the history and the style of ballet is very important. And in a way, it gives you a motivation to work in detail and go into the ballet more.
How would you describe Kenneth MacMillan’s approach to the piece?
I would describe Kenneth MacMillan’s Sleeping Beauty as purely and simply elegant. Pure technique and storytelling that brings audiences into the story’s universe.
Does this choreography require a different level of preparation?
I was very grateful to work with Alfreda Thorogood, Antony Dawson and Amanda Eyles, who helped us to stage the ballet. I have learned a lot from them how to approach this ballet, and it was one of the greatest rehearsal times I have had in my career.
What other challenges have you found in this role and production?
Variation of Lilac Fairy is a challenging one. It’s challenging because you need excellent technique to make it look easy and soft. I really enjoy working on it – specially with our wonderful ballet master, Loipa Araújo. I have learned so many things from her, which I will carry throughout my career. It’s challenging but very nice to work on it, and that helps me to improve as an artist.
What makes this production stand out?
You can see many characters in this ballet with spectacular costumes and set design, dancing to historical music and choreography. Also, the English National Ballet Philharmonic brings this iconic score to life in Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s splendid production, taking audiences on a magical journey. English National Ballet is currently the only company performing this version.
Why come see Sleeping Beauty?
It’s a beautiful ballet and you can feel the pure joy of dancing. It’s taking place at Royal Albert Hall, which is a gorgeous venue, and we are very excited to perform there and share the moment with audiences.
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Headshot by Isabella Turolla. Production pictures by
Sleeping Beauty plays at London’s Royal Albert Hall from 25 to 28 June. Tickets are available on the following link.