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Like Kristin I was struck by our discussion on Thursday about adaptations. Adapting a text, film, or any other form of media can be very difficult because if a creator stays too close to the original piece they can be criticized for not using their imagination. Adaptations that resemble the original piece are often labeled “boring” and “safe”. But, at the same time, if a creator takes too much liberty in preparation of an adaptation they too can be criticized. An adaptation can go too far in trying to bring imagination to an original work. So, considering all of this where is (and is there) a happy medium?

I tend to think the answer to this question varies from subject to subject but, I am not sure. Speaking from experience, I can say that Matthew Bourne’s all male version of Swan Lake is a good adaptation of the original Swan Lake. This particular ballet uses the same storyline as the original but, the dancers adopt a slightly different attitude.  Nicknamed the “gay Swan Lake” by the British and American press it definitely is a different Swan Lake then I am used to seeing. But, just because it is different does not mean I don’t enjoy Bourne’s interpretation of a classical piece. I don’t think anyone can out due the elegance of the original Swan Lake but, I still fully appreciate this new rendition of Swan Lake. I think a successful adaptation should engage the viewers in a new exciting way but, still remind the viewers of the beauty of the original piece.