The Bard inspires the ballet

The magical production is choreographed by artistic director Davd Nixon OBE and co-directed by Patricia Doyle.

In this modern adaptation of the Shakespeare play, the romantic antics of a touring dance company are played out as it travels by sleeper train from London to Edinburgh.

Nixon’s clever choreography brings out the comedy, romance and relationships in this enchanting story.

His Dior-inspired costumes, together with stylish black and white sets from Duncan Hayler, provide a dazzling contrast to the glorious techniclour of the dreamworld.

He said: “My version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is about young dancers and the passions and tribulations that a young touring company get themselves entangled in.

“It was really important to me to bring the romantic elements out of this much-loved story. I always enjoy seeing the reaction of the audience to this ballet – it’s great to hear them laughing.”
He added: “The ballet is very playful and uplifting and I think many people are pleasantly surprised to see so much humour captured in dance.”

The Northern Ballet Sinfonia will accompany the production which features music by Felix Mendelssohn and Johannes Brahms.

The company has 40 dancers and is based in Leeds.

> A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be at Milton Keynes Theatre from May 20 - 24. Tickets cost from £12 to £37.50. Call the Box Office on 0844 871 7652 or visit www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes