La Sylphide (2004)

La Sylphide tells the story of James, a young Scotsman on the eve of his wedding to Effie. On his wedding day, he is captivated by a Sylph, a beautiful invisible spirit who has fallen in love with him. James becomes obsessed with the Sylph, abandoning his human life and fiancée. His pursuit of the ethereal creature leads him down a path of enchantment and tragedy as he grapples with unattainable love and the consequences of his desires.

La Sylphide is a cornerstone of the Romantic ballet repertoire, and this 2004 production by The Royal Ballet is celebrated for its faithful rendition of the original choreography and its atmospheric staging. Critics praised the technical prowess and artistic interpretation of the principal dancers, noting their ability to convey the delicate and tragic nature of the story. The production is often lauded as a benchmark for its purity and historical accuracy in capturing the essence of this early Romantic masterpiece.

• Praised for its revival of a classic Romantic ballet.

• Hailed for the dancers' technical skill and emotional depth.

• Commended for its authentic and atmospheric staging.

Google audience: Audience reviews for this specific 2004 recording are scarce as it is primarily a filmed stage production. However, La Sylphide as a ballet is universally admired for its historical significance and beautiful choreography, often appreciated for its delicate portrayal of fantasy and doomed love.

None notable for this specific recording, but the ballet itself is considered a foundational work of classical ballet.

La Sylphide is one of the oldest ballets still regularly performed today, having premiered in Paris in 1832.