Starstruck was originally produced as a one-act ballet in September 2021 as Scottish Ballet’s first production after the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2026, it has now been adapted into an enhanced and extended piece. Starstuck is adapted from Gene Kelly’s 1960 Pas de Dieux in collaboration with Patricia Ward Kelly and has additional choreography by Christopher Hampton CBE.
Starstruck blends Greek mythology with old-time Hollywood glamour an ambitious choreographer (Yuri Marques) seeks a dancer for his new ballet. The ballerinas compete for the role, but it is The Star Ballerina (Marlen Fuerte Castro) who secures the lead.
Perhaps it is the slightly more unusual story, but the narrative is a bit harder to follow than in other Scottish Ballet productions, and the programme notes definitely come in handy- particularly in Act Two. Aphrodite and Eros head to France as they’re jealous of what the mortals get up to on earth and begin to cause chaos.
Dancing the role of the Lifeguard is the absolutely captivating Harvey Littlefield. A performer with such stage presence, you can’t take your eyes off them. Starstruck blends classical ballet with jazz, and the large ensemble numbers have a huge impact.
Lez Brotherson’s design is always a treat, and it takes us from a traditional film set and back lot to glittering dreamscapes. There are some real standout moments with the lavish costumes.
When Starstruck originally toured in 2021, it was with a backing track so it is a real treat to hear George Gershwin, Maurice Ravel and Frederic Chopin’s music performed live by The Scottish Ballet Orchestra.
Scottish Ballet’s Starstruck was wonderful the first time around but this new production has really elevated it into something even more special.
Photo credit: Andy Ross
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