The new Bourne Identity

Tim, 29, who’s appearing in Bourne’s Edward Scissorhands at Milton Keynes Theatre next month, says: “It’s still my fabourite but back then it was the most inspiring thing I’d ever seen.

“When I decided I wanted to dance, my parents didn’t bat an eyelid. My dad Paul’s a classical opera singer and he met my mum at the Royal College of Music. They’ve always been very supportive.”

The performing arts graduate says Bourne is known as a choreographer but he’s equally brilliant as a director.

“He draws people in with the narrative and all his work is very character-driven,” he explains.

“Edward Scissorhands is a direct translation of Tim Burton’s movie on to the stage but it’s very much in his style – he’s a genius.”

Dominic North, who dances the title role, agrees but adds: “He’s also such a modest and shy kind of guy.

“Most classical ballet companies just repeat what’s been done before but Matthew always does something different. He encourages people to come up with the characters themselves which makes it much more exciting – you can make the role your own.”

Dom is also an associate artist with the educational arm of Matthew’s company Re:Bourne, New Adventres.

> Edwards Scissorhands is at Milton Keynes Theatre from February 17 - 21.