Edward Scissorhands, London
Matthew Bourne’s adaptation of the Tim Burton movie is no less idiosyncratic than his settings of the ballet classics: it’s the same mix of comic, romantic and stylish theatre at which he excels. Edward’s hairdressing and topiary skills are the stuff of vivid choreography, his fear of wreaking havoc with his flashing hands contrasted with the magic he can create. His world, the small town of Hope Springs, is immaculately conveyed in the set and costume designs of Lez Brotherston, with music, based on the original Danny Elfman score, from Terry Davies.
Sadler’s Wells, EC1, Tue to 11 Jan
Fresh, London
The Place courts its teenage audience with this smart annual programme of bitesize dance pieces, performed by a combination of youth and professional companies. Hip-hop and streetdance are provided by the excellent Boy Blue Entertainment Youth Company, while a witty, minimalist mix of comedy and philosophy comes courtesy of the double act Igor and Moreno. Place Prize-winner Ben Duke creates a new work for Shift, the youth company attached to the theatre itself, and there’s also new work by James Wilton and Clément Dazin, the French maverick who combines hip-hop, contemporary dance and juggling.
The Place, WC1, Sat
