Northern Ballet and Bordeaux Opera Collaborate on New Swan Lake for 2026

A new version of the beloved ballet Swan Lake is set to take the stage thanks to a collaboration between Northern Ballet and the Ballet de l’Opéra National de Bordeaux. This exciting co-production aims to breathe fresh life into the classic tale, which is famous for its enchanting music by Tchaikovsky and its captivating story of love and transformation.

New Production Details

Scheduled for performance in 2026, the reimagined Swan Lake will be choreographed by Rachel Beaujean, a respected figure in the ballet world known for her insightful adaptations of classic works. The ballet will be performed by the Ballet de l’Opéra National de Bordeaux in their home theatre before Northern Ballet takes it on tour across the UK in 2027-28. This is a significant opportunity for audiences to experience a production that promises to retain the magical elements of the original while also offering a modern twist.

Creative Vision

Rachel Beaujean has expressed her excitement about this project, stating, “Swan Lake is without a doubt one of the greatest and most well-loved ballets. When thinking about a new version for Northern Ballet, I knew I wanted to keep those magical elements that we all love and approach the story in a way which gives the female characters more agency.” This approach aims to empower the character of Odette, who has historically been portrayed as a victim of circumstance.

Character Development

The new narrative will explore Odette’s journey in depth. In the original story, she is transformed into a swan by a wicked sorcerer and is forced to live in a lake, away from her true identity and her mother’s crown. In this adaptation, her character will not just be a passive figure but will actively seek independence and freedom. Odette falls in love with Prince Siegfried, and together they navigate the challenges posed by their families and societal expectations.

Beaujean aims to make Odette's transformation an act of her own choosing, giving her a voice in a world that often tries to silence her. This shift in focus not only enhances the emotional depth of the story but also makes it more relatable to contemporary audiences.

Artistic Team

The creative team for this production also includes dramaturg Uzma Hameed, who has worked on Northern Ballet’s Victoria. Hameed’s role will be crucial in shaping the story and ensuring that it resonates with modern viewers. Additionally, set and costume designs will be crafted by Colin Richmond, while lighting will be managed by Alastair West. This multi-talented team is set to bring a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience to the stage.

About Northern Ballet

Based in Leeds, Northern Ballet is dedicated to making ballet accessible to as many people as possible. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Federico Bonelli, the company performs at over thirty venues each year, showcasing a mix of full-length ballets, shorter performances, and specially created works for children. The Academy of Northern Ballet also offers classical ballet training, attracting students from Yorkshire and beyond.