Swan lake mans up

Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake tells a contemporary story.Dominic North performs as the prince and Richard Winsor as the swan. Photos provided to China Daily

An innovative version of the romantic ballet classic breaks with tradition by turning up the machismo several notches. Zhang Kun reports in Shanghai.

Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake gives the classic ballet new wings, propelled by an injection of testosterone.

Since all the swans are men, there are no tutus, pirouette or pointe shoes.

It will be shown in Shanghai for 11 nights, plus matinees. The performances will be the version's China debut.

Tickets went on sale in May.

The production has won Lawrence Olivier, Tony and Astaire awards for Excellence in Dance on Broadway since it was created in 1995.

When a revival was staged at Sadler's Wells last year, the Daily Telegraph's critic Rachel Ward wrote: "Bourne's Swan Lake is witty, menacing, lyrical and wild. Its continuing success is a continuing inspiration. I am sure I won't be the only one flocking back to the theater for another viewing."

Bourne's Swan Lake is based on Tchaikovsky's musical masterpiece created in the late 19th century but tells a contemporary story.