ENGLISH National Ballet’s simply enchanting production of Swan Lake at the Palace Theatre on its opening night had the audience mesmerised.

A full house watched the romance and drama of the story of Prince Siegfried’s love for the Swan Queen, Odette unfold beautifully.

Their battle against the evil magician, Rothbart and an encounter with the manipulative Odile was told through a series of beautiful set pieces, led superbly by the lead principals, Alina Cojocaru and Alejandro Virelles.

Alina’s exquisite depiction of Odette and her interpretation of Odile was as perfect as it was almost unbelievable — I was not the only one who thought they were two different dancers.

The magical production of what is described as one of the most popular ballets was visually stunning and Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score played live by the Orchestra of English National Ballet created the drama and emotion it is designed to stir.

And in a reflection of the artistic director’s talents, the imaginative sets and the glorious music did not overpower the dancers, with each bringing their own to the role they danced — no matter how big or small which made this production work flawlessly led by two very strong leads whose dancing simply wowed the audience who could not contain their appreciation of Cojocaru’s Odile.

Swan Lake has been performed for more than 135 years and was recently given a popular makeover in the film Black Swan, and the Hollywood blockbuster was mentioned more than once by members of the audience.

For fans of ballet this production is three hours of pure indulgence and escapism in which you can sit back and enjoy ballet as it moves smoothly from drama, romance and comedy and it serves as the perfect introduction to the first-time ballet goer, who has yet to experience the magic of such productions.

The English National Ballet gives people a chance to experience this much-loved production at its best.

Swan Lake runs until Saturday.