Swan Lake is one of the most loved of all classical ballets and one of the most popular in the Royal Ballet repertory. It has the enchanting combination of Tchaikovsky’s music, a compelling story of tragic romance and choreography that allows the very best dancers to show just how impressive they can be.

Swan Lake returns for a second time the Royal Ballet’s 2008/9 season in Anthony Dowell’s romantic production in which the designs were inspired by Imperial Russia of 1895, when the ballet was first performed.

Against this atmospheric setting, Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov’s choreography provides an opportunity to see great dance partnerships in the leading roles and the whole Company in the dance ensembles.

Illuminated by moonlight, the charged solos for the Prince and Odette and her alter-ego Odile, the machinations of Von Rothbart and the colour of a palace ball all combine with glorious music to make for an evening of inspiration and romance.

Find out more about the rich variety of West End shows on offer in Theatreland.