The story
Toy maker Dr Coppélius seems to have a beautiful young woman in his house: Coppélia, who sits and reads on his balcony. Franz and his fellow young villagers are curious about her and how she ignores them all. Franz’s fiancée Swanilda is not pleased by Franz’s interest in another woman, but equally curious. When Dr Coppélius goes to the local tavern, the young villagers slip into his house to introduce themselves to the strangely silent young woman.
Background
A classic returns to the Royal Ballet repertory with Ninette de Valois’ charming and funny Coppélia – a story of love, mischief and mechanical dolls. The intricate choreography is set to Delibes’ delightful score and shows off the technical precision and comedic timing of the whole Company. Osbert Lancaster’s designs bring a colourful storybook world to life in this Christmas treat for the whole family.
Credits
Company
The Royal Ballet
Choreography
Ninette de Valois after Lev Ivanov and Enrico Cecchetti
Music
Léo Delibes
Scenario
Charles Nuitter and Arthur Saint-Léon
Designer
Lighting designer
Performers
To find out more visit the Coppélia (2019) production page.