Edward Scissorhands - Sadler's Wells Theatre

SYNOPSIS

Edward Scissorhands

Matthew Bourne's ballet production of Edward Scissorhands returns to Sadler's Wells Theatre in London from 3rd December 2008 for a seven week run on the UK-leg of the show's international tour. Bourne's groundbreaking take on Tim Burton's gothic movie tale was originally performed at Sadler's Wells from November 2005 to February 2006. Starring Matthew Malthouse and Dominic North as Edward, and featuring Kerry Biggin and Noi Tolmer as Kim, the production is one of the most highly anticipated of the 2008/09 winter season.

Edward Scissorhands - the Story

Edward Scissorhands is a heart-warming gothic fairytale about Edward - the creation of an eccentric inventor who dies before he is able to complete his project. Edward is left alone in the world to fend for himself, unfinished, and with scissors for hands. He is taken in by a kind family and befriends Kim, a young sensitive girl. Kim sees past Edward's unusual appearance and finds only innocence and kindness. The story of their relationship then unfolds against a background of prejudice and fear of Edward from the rest of the community - and against the jealousy and rage of Kim's thug of a boyfriend, Jim.

Edward is eventually driven from the community by those around him. He seeks refuge back at his creator's mansion on the hill. Realising she is in love with him, Kim follows Edward to the mansion in an attempt to be with him. But Jim follows, intent on killing Edward and winning back the affection of Kim. A struggle ensues and Edward falls. But is Edward dead? Kim tells the townspeople that Edward is dead in an effort to prevent them from lynching him. The ending of Edward Scissorhands however suggests that Edward may live on in peace in the mansion on the hill.

Matthew Bourne

Matthew Bourne is a highly respected dance choreographer with a growing list of production credits to his name. His first stage production was Overlap Lovers - An Intrigue in Three Parts in 1987. He then went on to produce Highland Fling in 1994 and a somewhat controversial adaptation of Swan Lake in 1995, for which his production company won many awards. This was followed up by the Car man in 2000 and a version of the Nutcracker in 2002.

With Edward Scissorhands Matthew Bourne first won the trust of Tim Burton to adapt his original motion picture into dance. That trust has been repaid with a faithful reproduction of the original story on stage, accompanied by stunning stage sets designed by Lez Brotherson and lit by Howard Harrison. The production also features original music created by Terry Davies, which captures the haunting beauty of Danny Elfman's music in Tim Burton's original motion picture.

As the New York Times said of Matthew Bourne's international touring production, "Just bring your ears and eyes and marvel at the inventions of Mr Bourne's theatrical imagination." The show runs at Sadler's Wells Theatre from 3 December 2008 to 17 January 2009. 

"A fantastic family show! Full of brilliant comic detail and engaging life"
DAILY TELEGRAPH


PLEASE NOTE

1. Latecomers not admitted until the interval
2. Recommended for ages 8+ "It's a family show, but as a guideline, suitable from ages 8+. SOme scenes contain very powerful imagery and may upset younger children. At parents discretion. There is no sex, nudity or swearing".
3. Stobe lighting will be used in the production