MIST swirls around a moonlit lake and beautiful pure white swans in perfect dance harmony...

From the innovative prologue to the final curtain calls, this is a fautless Swan Lake in the hands (and feet) of English National Ballet.

There are so many inventive, vibrant and visual scenes in this three-hour, four-act production at the Liverpool Empire that you will leave the theatre feeling as if you have awoken from a dream sequence.

Individually and collectively the company ensures that you will be treated, and that word is the essence of this touring version, to a delightful celebration of one of the classic ballets.

Swan Lake has been performed for more than 135 years.

It will never lose is timeless appeal.

Alina Cojocatu in the complex dual role of Odette and Odile is mesmerising.

One moment she is goodness personified then, in black swan mode, she is scheming, erotic and maniupulative.

Prince Siegfred (Alejandro Virelles), complete with birthday gift of a crossbow and looking for true love, is wondetfully convincing as a man who finally finds his heart.

The villain of the piece is half-man, half-bird, Rothbart (James Streeter), who swoops across the stage with a set of wings and menace that perefectly complements the innocence of the graceful swans who will, I promise, transfix you.

Rothbart reminded me of a character from Tim Burton's Batman era.

This love story has it all and as someone who has reviewed it over three decades. It is a ballet I never tire of.

ENB's artistic director Tamara Rojo ensures that ballet is accesible to all.

Next year they are introducing children to this art form with My First Ballet - parents and teachers should look out for that tour.

This production is a must for all those who have never seen it before.

Those familiar with the work will agree that EBN pull out all the stops.

Their motyo is: "Don't just reach your potential - surpass it."

The company reflect that and are true to their word.

It is a magical mission statement that comes alive on stage.

Conductor Gavin Sutherland and Tchaikovsky - what a partnership - and a full orchestra sweep us along from the birthday celebration in the palace to the final act where we see if love conquers all.

Touches of humour, a superb set from Peter Farmer, and you have a Swan Lake that will stay in your memory.

This is real love related in a beautiful setting and performed with style, stature and finesse.

Five out of five stars 5/5: Swan-derful.

The show is at the Liverpool Empire until Saturday, November 22. Performances start at 7.30pm, with a 2.30pm Saturday matinee.

Tickets are from 08448713017