One of the few things that rescue this production of The Nutcracker is Thomas Edur and Agnes Oaks. The elegant pair are pure classical dancers and when they walk on stage you can hear the relief that calm and order has returned. Edur is the Prince and Oaks the Sugar Plum Fairy, and their gracious manners and perfect dancing are gorgeous to watch. There are few dancers who can match them. Even their naff costumes can't disguise their artistry.
How you wish you could see them in something other than this Nutcracker, from which the novelty has most definitely worn off. It was new in 2002, and back then there was a lurid allure in Gerald Scarfe's wacky designs and his madcap family of smiling eccentrics. There is doddery grandpa with his Zimmer frame, a buxom Ms V. Aggra, and a timid maid who is transformed into a vamp. Scarfe is best know for illustrating the notorious Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, and you half thought it an intentionally subversive lark that ENB had let him loose on a ballet.
Five years on it looks dated and try-hard, added to which both the sets are showing signs of wear and tear. Without their original neon-bright newness, the thin choreography is dangerously exposed. This is the work of the able British dance-maker Christopher Hampson, who you suspect must regret having got involved. Tail wagging the dog is the phrase that comes to mind.
Many of the cast looked bored, so it is good news that director Wayne Eagling is bringing Kenneth MacMillan's Manon into ENB's repertory for the first time next year. Eagling danced in Manon during his days at the Royal Ballet, and for ENB to perform this modern classic will work wonders for morale. They look as if they need it.
Until 6 January. Swan Lake 9-19 January. Information: 0870 145 0200, www.ballet.org.uk
English National Ballet: The Nutcracker
London Coliseum
St Martin's Lane, WC2N 4ES
