Described as 'the ultimate fairytale ballet' and using a familiar recipe of good versus evil, Swan Lake is a favourite of ballerinas and audiences alike.

It appeals to all ages, as the wide ranging packed-out audience showed and has been voted the world's best ballet.

However, when Tchaikovsky first composed the score in 1877, it was hugely criticised and both music and choreography went through many changes before it was praised and valued.

Founded in 1990 by Elik Melikov, still its director, Moscow Ballet of Classical Choreography - “La Classique” encompasses dancers from many CIS countries and renowned companies like the Bolshoi and Kirov.

They have toured extensively worldwide, gaining great international acclaim. Tonight it was easy to see why.

Having previously watched the company perform The Nutcracker earlier this year, tonight's performance was by far superior.

Nadejda Ivanova, formerly of Russian National Ballet, was truly mesmerising as both Odette and Odille. She brought such elegance and precision to every move and her fouettes (I counted over 28 at one point in Act III) were just incredible. She held her body with faultless poise and grace, epitomising the elegant swans she represented.

Ivanova was ably supported by Aleksandr Tarasov as love interest Prince Siegfried.

Dancing with the company since 2010, it is clear to see why he is one of their principal dancer. The evil Von Rothbart was brought to life in full force by Dmitry Smirnov, whose expressive talent exuded evil through both face and body, aided by some fantastic cape-ography!

The Fool – Maxim Marenin was a real crowd favourite bringing boundless enthusiasm to the role with his spins, leaps and comedic expressions.

Beautiful scenery and costumes are always a delight from this company and tonight's shadowy backdrops, mystic castle, misty lake and eerie trees did the whole production proud.

Acts III and IV were the real highlights, including captivating lifts without the merest hint of a wobble with the interactions between Ivanova and Tarasov something magical to witness.

My only complaints were the numerous distractions of sweet rustling patrons around me which really spoilt the drama and mood in places.

Also, having seen ballet with full live orchestras in the past, for me pre-recorded scores never bring quite the same passion and verve in a theatre. But otherwise, a fantastic evening of exquisite ballet.