Swan Lake
A popular classic in a contemporary version for the whole family
Swan Lake
Choreographer Stijn Celis created a contemporary version of Swan Lake for the whole family. After the successful tour three years ago, Introdans brings this world-famous and beloved classic back to the stage, in a sparkling, contemporary adaptation for young and old. The dance language is powerful and expressive, rich in poetry, grotesque humor, and a generous dose of imagination.
With his Swan Lake, Belgian choreographer Celis gave the “ballet of all ballets” Swan Lake, which has been performed worldwide for 125 years since its very first staging, a surprisingly fresh, humorous, and innovative twist. Swan Lake is a large-scale and captivating spectacle in which the entire Introdans ensemble shines in an impressive set design, carried by the timeless, majestic, and moving music of Tchaikovsky.
The press about Swan Lake
“This Swan Lake is very lively. The costumes are colorful and festive, the conventions of classical ballet language are humorously undermined, and the movements of the swans are intriguing: more whimsically animal-like than romantically graceful.” – Theaterkrant
“Boxing moves and animal mannerisms: this expressive version of ‘Swan Lake’ is full of cheerful surprises.” – de Volkskrant
“The new modern version of Swan Lake at Introdans looks youthful and fresh.” – Theaterparadijs
Swan Lake premieres on 25 September 2026 at Amphion Theater, Doetinchem.
Tour: 25 September to 25 November 2026
Locations: The Hague, Zwolle, Arnhem, Apeldoorn, Hengelo, Deventer, Eindhoven, Haarlem, Gouda, Amersfoort, Zutphen, Oss, Enschede, ‘s-Hertogenbosch, Emmen, Zoetermeer, Maastricht, Almere, Utrecht, Tiel, Rotterdam, Drachten
Agenda
Swan Lake
Scene pictures
Want to know more?
In this adaptation of Swan Lake, the choreographer emphasizes the tense relationship between Prince Siegfried and his domineering mother, the Queen, as well as Siegfried’s desire to escape the “claws” of the monarchy. Themes such as the awakening of the senses and the search for one’s own path are central. For that very reason, this production also resonates strongly with younger audiences. “The production is very theatrical, featuring all kinds of technical highlights such as an inflatable set and a fold-out airplane staircase, while the story remains very easy to follow. As a viewer, you embark on a fascinating journey that never leaves you bored for a single moment.” Roel Voorintholt.
Swan Lake Experium
Visitors are warmly invited to the Swan Lake Experium in the theatre foyer: an interactive experience for young and old, stimulating all the senses. Feel the costumes, take an Insta selfie in a (digital) costume, listen to the famous music, and discover the characters up close. Step onto the dance floor and perform your own Swan Lake duet, design the set, or play with the lighting. During the intermission you can learn a short choreography, and after the performance you can meet some of the dancers in a Meet & Greet. Admission is free.
Listen to the famous music in our playlist!