This film records English National Ballet’s in-the-round staging at the Royal Albert Hall. Derek Deane’s choreography places the story within a large ensemble, including sixty swans. The filming includes overhead views of the formations. Sangeun Lee and Gareth Haw lead the cast listed by the provider.
New to the ballet? Read our Swan Lake guide for the story, choreographic background and viewing suggestions.
Story and interpretation
Prince Siegfried falls in love with Odette, a woman under an enchantment. The tension between love, appearances and betrayal drives the drama. This production presents that story in a circular performance space, rather than within a conventional framed stage.
What to watch for
LookBallet viewing guide: follow the ensemble as well as the central couple. Notice how the distance between dancers, the direction of their gaze and the timing of each entrance help organise a large space. When the camera moves overhead, compare the pattern you can see with the individual gestures visible in close-up. Consider how those two perspectives change your experience of the same scene.
Cast and recording details
- Sangeun Lee: Odette/Odile.
- Gareth Haw: Prince Siegfried.
- James Streeter: Rothbart.
- Music: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, performed by English National Ballet Philharmonic.
- Design: Peter Farmer. Lighting: Howard Harrison.
- Duration listed by the provider: 128 minutes.
The official page offers a three-day rental. This is the Royal Albert Hall film; do not confuse it with the separately listed Liverpool recording.
Official recording information checked: 15 October 2026. Viewing suggestions are LookBallet editorial guidance.
Explore this recording
English National Ballet lists this recording in its Ballet on Demand catalogue. Check the provider for availability in your country, current price and rental terms.