 The production was not popular with audiences and was considered a failure, largely owing to the irrational and unattractive designs by Maria Björnson.The negative reviews of his "Swan Lake" and "The Sleeping Beauty" did not, however, seriously affect Dowell's reputation, as he was held in high regard by all who worked with him.In 2001, a gala performance marking his farewell to the Royal Opera House ushered him into retirement in a volley of flowers and nostalgic acclaim.