Sheffield Lyceum audience give standing ovation to the breathtaking Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake

We have to wait for 45 (still entertaining) minutes establishing the story of a confused prince who is supposed to be finding a bride before the famous male swans stalk on to the stage.

It’s such a thrilling moment when The Swan Will Bozier arrives, transfixing us with his animal glare and almost alien presence. He absolutely nails the role.

The swans are fabulous, utterly convincing and enchanting and more than a little scary, an effect enhanced by the performers' clever sound effects. You never want them to leave the stage.

The duets between The Swan and the Prince (the brilliant Dominic North) are gorgeous,moving and exciting.

However, the show is full of so much more, including plenty of funny scenes featuring the prince’s gauche, starstruck girlfriend (Katrina Lyndon), and a great send-up of traditional ballet.

The moment when the Swan-like Stranger (Bozier) bursts into a royal ball, causing chaos, is full of sexual tension and the dancing builds to a brilliant climax (pun intended).

The swans finally return for the drama-filled finale to what is one of the best dance shows you will ever see, or quite possibly the best.

The entire audience got up on their feet to give the cast a prolonged standing ovation.

Lez Brotherston’s clever set and costume designs looked gorgeous, as always.

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake – the Legend Returns is at Sheffield Lyceum until Saturday, May 25. Tour website: new-adventures.net/swan-lake