I T was a sell-out performance, and the touring company Ballet Russe lived up to the audience's expectations. This Swansea-based group have been rehearsing together for five years, and come from all over Russia.

Comic ballet Coppelia is set in a European peasant village, and features young lovers Swanhilda and Franz. When Franz falls in love with a doll in the doll-maker's window, Swanhilda conspires with the doll-maker to play a trick on him. She dresses up as the doll, and then surprises Franz when he climbs in the window to seduce his new love. Repentant, Franz apologises, they marry and live happily ever after.

This timeless story was beautifully rendered by the Ballet Russe: their dancing was expressive and lively, making the story accessible to all. Their grace was further complimented by gestures and facial expressions, full of passionate, truly Russian, emotion.

Chika Temma, originally from Japan, was stunning in the lead role of Swanhilda, and Viktor Pivovarov was both cheeky and charming as her roguish but loveable suitor. Local girls from the Bishop Auckland Youth Ballet appeared in supporting roles.

The second act, set in the doll-maker's workshop, was superb. The dancers' effortless execution of crisp mechanical movements was by turns breathtaking and comical. The perfectly co-ordinated drummer boy doll was a particular favourite; Franz accidentally sets him off while begging for Swanhilda's forgiveness. The poor thing drums so hard he falls off his chair!

Published: 06/10/2004