The moving Welsh folk story of Llyn y Fan Fach, was a wonderful choice for Independent Ballet Wales latest production. The story tells of Owain, a young man who falls madly in love with a mysterious woman who emerges from the lake. In a desperate attempt to gain her love he throws himself into the water, with intention of finding her or drowning himself.. Inspired by his act of love she agrees to marry him, on the condition that he can forge wedding rings from the gold from her dress and the metal of his belt and that he shall not strike her three times, else she will return to the water.

With a brilliant original score by Thomas Hewitt Jones this ballet worked to the strengths of the company, keeping it simple but animated, controlled but experimental. The stage was intersected beautifully with large white sails and the show used projections to give the piece a new dimension which worked fantastically. The movement of the video projects brought a new life to the piece and worked harmoniously with the dancers.

This stunning production moved wonderfully through the seasons, and allowed lighter moments to shine through this heart breaking tale. The entire company filled the stage with the strength and skill needed to bring this well known story to life.