INSIGHT: BRANDON LAWRENCE

Principal Brandon Lawrence tells us about dancing the role of Prince Siegfried Swan Lake is one of the world’s most popular ballets, why do you think this is?

I believe Swan Lake is one of the most popular ballets because the Tchaikovsky score is timeless. It was the first of his three big classics, the others being The Nutcracker and The Sleeping Beauty. Swan Lake has the perfect balance of drama, passion and evil, while still captivating audiences today with its beauty expressed in the music.

What are the challenges/joys of performing the role of the charming Prince Siegfried?

One of the challenges of performing Siegfried is showing the Prince’s progression throughout the four acts. He goes on a journey from mourning, to curiosity, temptation, to betrayal and love. It’s a lot to convey so to strike a balance while executing the technique is a challenge. For me the joy is having the story unfold as I take each step, the pas de deux’s are exquisite and the build up to the final (excuse the pun) ‘swan song’ is heartbreakingly beautiful.

Do you feel more pressure when performing such an iconic role? The pressures of performing are always going to be there, even more so when returning to a role. I try to trust in myself in putting my best foot forward and enjoy the hard work I and those around me have done. As I was reminded not long ago – if I wanted everything to be perfect I’d work in TV.

Have you got a favourite part of the ballet/score?

There are many favourite moments for me in Swan Lake. All of the pas de deux’s are a treat to dance; the music, the steps and sharing that time with my partner is very special. I particularly love the Czárdás piece of music in Act III and then the whole of the fourth act is a masterpiece.