Swanlake-Matthew Bourne

Question 1

themes in Swanlake (Matthew Bourne)

Answer 1

-the royal family
-paparazzi and the media
-identity
-rejection

Question 2

how is the theme of ‘the royal family’ portrayed

Answer 2

The theme of the royal family is shown because the first Swan Lake by Matthew Bourne in 1995 was during a time where the royal family was very important and were the ‘centre of media interest’.
-Bourne also makes direct references to members of the royal family at the time EG, the Dutchess of York as the ditsy princess who didn’t know how to behave with etiquitte
-Bourne also states that research into King
Ludwig II of Bavaria influenced the development of the
Prince’s character; his fascination with swans and his sexual confusion whilst trying to conform once again to the expectations of being a Royal figure head.

Question 3

How is the theme of ‘media’ portrayed in Swan Lake

Answer 3

The royal family being the centre of the media interest.
- The prince shies away from the media and paparazzi because it intrudes his life(princess Diana’s death) : this is shown when he leaves the club trying to hide his face from paparazzi after trying to lead a normal life

Question 4

How is the theme of ‘identity’ portrayed in Swan Lake

Answer 4

The theme of identity focuses on how the media takes over famous people(especially the royal families) lives by surrounding them.
-We join the prince on his journey to finding his identity even is it doesn’t follow the norm of society (sexual confusion and swans)
- he is treated as if his identity crisis is a mental breakdown

Question 5

How is the theme of ‘rejection’ portrayed in Swan Lake

Answer 5

The theme of rejection is shown very early on from the princes mother who decides to reject comfort for the boy whilst he is having a nightmare in the first act.(this is pivotal to the boys insecurity)
-focus love and want for love
-