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La Fille Mal Gardée (The Royal Ballet)
Frederick Ashton's La Fille mal gardée (The Wayward Daughter) is one of the choreographer's most joyous and colourful creations. Inspired by his love for the Suffolk countryside, the ballet is set on a farm and tells a story of love between Lise, the daughter of Widow Simone, and Colas, a young farmer. It contains some of Ashton's most stunning choreography, most strikingly in the series of energetic pas de deux that express the youthful passion of the young lovers, performed here by Natalia Osipova and Steven McRae. The ballet is laced with exuberant good humour, and elements of national folk dance, from dancing chickens and a maypole dance to a Lancashire clog dance for Widow Simone, performed by Philip Mosley.
Insights
Plot Summary
A lively and humorous ballet, La Fille Mal Gardée tells the story of Lise, a farmer's daughter, who is in love with the poor but charming Alain. However, her mother, Widow Simone, has other plans and intends to marry her off to the wealthy but dim-witted Thomas. Lise and Alain must devise a plan to thwart the widow's intentions and secure their own happiness, leading to a series of comical escapades and a joyous conclusion.
Critical Reception
The Royal Ballet's 2015 production of La Fille Mal Gardée was widely praised for its effervescent charm, vibrant dancing, and the company's ability to capture the ballet's comedic spirit. Critics highlighted the exceptional performances of the principal dancers and the overall joyous atmosphere of the production.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its infectious humor and lighthearted charm.
Acclaimed for the sparkling performances of the lead dancers.
Celebrated as a delightful and masterfully executed revival of a beloved classic.
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Fun Fact
The original choreography for La Fille Mal Gardée dates back to 1789, making it one of the oldest ballets still regularly performed today, though this 2015 production features Frederick Ashton's renowned 1960 staging.
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