EDWARD SCISSORHANDS

The Mayflower, Southampton

AS a fan of director Tim Burton I was intrigued to see how Edward Scissorhands would translate on stage. And the results were amazing.

Based on his 90s film the production tells the story of Edward, whose creator dies before he can finish his work leaving him alone – unfinished with his scissor hands. Soon he finds himself in a strange new world – Hope Springs – where he tries to find his place.

The New Adventures production is driven by dance. However, you soon forget that not a word of dialogue has been spoken as you are absorbed into the quirky world.

The hauntingly beautiful music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies is beautifully woven into the production and sweeps you off on a journey with Edward as he seeks to understand the world, find acceptance, and true love.

It captures the emotion and works well with the choreography. Dominic North does superbly in the lead role and captures the innocence and vulnerability of Edward.

Matthew Bourne’s choreography is brilliant and expertly executed by the talented cast.

The imaginative sets were amazing and with the colourful array of costumes brought the story and the show to life. I particularly loved the Hope Springs neighbourhood.

The cast certainly captured the hearts of audiences at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre on the show’s opening night as they rose from their seats to give them a standing ovation.

It captures the essence of Tim Burton’s film, which will appeal to fans of the film and those who have never seen it before. It is definitely worth a watch and makes for a magical theatrical experience.

Edward Scissorhands runs until Saturday. For tickets call the box office on 02380 711811 or go to mayflower.org.uk.