Swan Lake

Close to 1,000 performances of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet Swan Lake have been staged at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. This fine 2009 production by the Royal Ballet presents all four acts under the aegis of Anthony Dowell, who danced the role of Prince Siegfried back in the '70s. Using the framework of the timeless Marius Petipa/Lev Ivanov choreography, and reinstating some rarely performed parts, this lavish undertaking features a fairy tale setting and exquisite costuming (updated from medieval times to the composer's 19th-century era). The story of the prince who falls in love with Odette (who must be released from an evil spell) but betrays her for the seductive Odile makes special demands on the ballerina, who must not only negotiate the choreographic challenges but also project opposing personae in the dual role of Odette/Odile. Marianela Nuñez does this to perfection, superbly supported by Thiago Soares as Prince Siegfried. Although the camerawork provides full-stage views, at times it feels like a top-balcony perspective—that being said, however, this is still consistently superior to other offerings (including those reviewed in VL-4/03, VL-1/06, and VL-5/07). Presented in DTS and LPCM stereo, DVD extras include an excellent interview with Dowell, a discussion among four prima ballerinas who have performed the role of Odette/Odile, a synopsis, and a cast gallery. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Reed)