Dance or ballet: One of ballet's most famous works with some of its best known music. It is Siegfried's birthday and his mother gives him a crossbow and an ultimatum to get married! After the party and finding himself alone he goes hunting. The evil magician Rothbart (half man half bird) keeps beautiful women as swans on the lake - but by night they resume human form. Siegfried is bewitched by Odette, a Princess and one of the Swans. She explains their plight to Siegfried and says the spell can only be broken by someone who'll love her truly for ever. He swears to do so but Odette returns to being a swan as Rothbart's powers are so strong. Siegfried returns to the palace and his mother presents him with a string of women from whom to chose his bride - Rothbart arrives with his daughter Odile disguised as Odette and Siegfried agrees to marry her - only then realising his mistake as Odile reviles him for breaking his vow to Odette. Siegfried returns to the lake and begs Odette to forgive him - then fights Rothbart whom he kills - and the swans are released from the spell.
About The Coliseum
Until the recent restoration project, no substantial programme of repair has been carried out on this historic London landmark since it first opened its doors in 1904. The London Coliseum, which is London's largest theatre, is cited as being architect Frank Matcham's crowning achievement. In its 100 year history it has played host to many forms of entertainment, including horse races, musicals, variety, cinema and, since 1968, opera.
Travel
Nearest Underground: Leicester Square (Piccadilly/Northern lines)/Charing Cross (Norther/Bakerloo lines)
From Leicester Square head south down Charing Cross Road towards St Martin's Place.
From Charing Cross head towards Trafalgar Square. Take the north east exit from Trafalgar Square to St Martin's Place.
The London Coliseum is at the bottom of St Martin's Lane, on the junction of St Martin's Place.
Nearest Rail: Charing Cross
See above.
Parking: NCP Bedfordbury (behind theatre), Panton Street. Westminster City Council Car Parks Trafalgar Square. Parking can be difficult and expensive within central London - please use public transport if at all possible.
Access
Wheelchairs: Users must bring a non-wheelchair using companion.
Hearing Impaired: Infrared headsets can be collected from the foyer desk. Sign interpreted performances may also be available.
Notes
All non-English productions will have English surtitles at the majority of performances. Dates without surtitles will be noted in the Item Information.
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