Dancer shares ‘full circle’ journey from audience member to star performer in Swan Lake

Maisie Mwebe recently completed her training at the Northern Ballet School.

Whilst here, she was a regular theatre lover, sat in the stalls, in awe of the incredible performers she was watching.

Next month, she swaps the theatre seat for the stage, as she is in the ensemble for Matthew Bourne’s visionary take on the classic Swan Lake.

We caught up with her to find out more about joining such an innovative ballet company and appearing on stage at the Lowry.

How did it feel when you got into New Adventures following your training?

It didn’t quite feel real at first as I truly wasn’t expecting to get the job! Since being young I’d always seen New Adventures shows as a birthday present or treat, so the concept of being on the other side of the audience was living up to 14-year-old Maisie’s dreams.

What good memories do you have about living in Manchester?

Manchester was my first experience living away from home so it will always be a memorable stepping stone in my life. I have so many good memories as I lived with the most amazing group of friends and enjoyed my time training at college.

I found being in a city, coming from such a rural area really brought me out of my shell and introduced me to so many new experiences.

One of my favourite parts was how so many different places had live music with bands and artists coming from varied backgrounds. I felt there was such a buzz to the city and I just loved the atmosphere.

If someone is new to ballet, what will they get from this production to convert them into a fan?

It’s a show that although carries the foundations of ballet is such a melting pot of different styles.

This means it’s very accessible to people who may not have ever been able to connect with strictly classical ballet.

Above anything it tells a story that has so many highs and lows, I would be surprised if anyone didn’t leave the theatre having felt or taken something from it.

It also has a comedic aspect to it at times, which often a lot of traditional ballets don’t so obviously have.

You have visited the Lowry many times as an audience member. How will it feel when you step out onto the Lyric Theatre stage?

I think it will be one of those full-circle moments where you can’t quite believe how things have turned out.

I actually watched New Adventures’ Sleeping Beauty at the Lowry a couple of years back so it will feel amazing to be back again but this time on the other side. I’m so excited and proud to perform in the place that I’ve grown up in over the past three years.

What is the best thing about performing in a ballet like this one?

There is space to grow your characters all the way through to the end of the tour and bringing your own personality to different moments is so fun.

Being part of a large cast is so lovely, performing with such talented people every day.

There is something so special about dancing as one unit and whether I’m watching in a wing from the side or actually performing,

it’s such a powerful feeling when dancing together.

Tickets for Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake at the Lowry

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake at the Lowry from 19th – 30th November and you can book tickets here.