Whilst the cult 1990 classic Tim Burton film Edward Scissorhands might not be the most obvious choice for a ballet, Matthew Bourne has yet again worked his magic to create something quite wonderful and special. Originally on stage in 2005, this production is back on tour and leaving audiences in love with the tale of the boy that has scissors for hands. 

As a young teen obsessed with anything Tim Burton, Edward Scissorhands was a film that had a special place in my slightly odd, emo heart. To see it adapted from the screen into a Matthew Bourne ballet was nothing short of perfection and truly transported me into the world of a much loved tale. 

 Rambert are one of the most exciting, innovative, and daring dance companies around. Proud to be one of the most diverse of dance companies around, Rambert push the boundaries for what it means to be a dance group whilst entertaining the world with shows like nothing you have seen before. One thing I love about Rambert is how accessible their shows are. Not only are they like no other dance show you have seen before, they also push at the boundaries of what it means to be a dance show to leave the audience on the edge of their seats, and new viewers to dance falling in love with the medium. Each show I have seen by Rambert has honestly stayed with me forever.

Death Trap is no different. A uniquely dark yet hilarious look at life, death, and everything in between. Death Trap takes you on an emotional rollercoaster as you are plunged into a show that leaves your heart racing from the intensity of the live band, your eyes watering from chuckling so much, and feeling like you have been moved from the true raw emotions of what is being portrayed on stage. 

 Dance consortium are a world renowned company that showcases shows using dancers dance companies from around the world. With theatres around the UK and Ireland that are part of the Dance Consortium family, including the Mayflower Theatre, it allows them to present innovative, creative, and wonderful shows for audiences to see. 

Ailey 2 is no exception. Founded by Alvin Ailey, the company embodies his pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, and community programs for all people. Since its 1974 inception, Ailey 2 has flourished into one of the most popular modern dance companies, combining a rigorous touring schedule with extensive community outreach programs.

The mix of first and second season dancers are led by newly appointed Artistic Director, Francesca Harper who herself studied at The Ailey School, the official school of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Harper aims to bring fresh perspectives to Ailey’s legacy, while nurturing new creative voices and propelling the company forward.

 When you combine award winning choreographer Kate Prince with the music of Sting you create something captivating and beautiful. You create a soaring and impactful story about the strength of humanity and the plight of families torn apart by destruction. 

Message In a Bottle is a dance show by ZooNation that tells the story of a family that are forced apart by war and terror. What starts as a celebration of life and community quickly turns into a fight for survival and three siblings whose journey to safety is different from each other unfolds on stage in front of you.