The Romantic Movement sought heaven's perfection on earth. Ballet flourished during the era in large part because it epitomizes the quest.
Story ballets such as "La Sylphide" and "Giselle" summon images of love, often in its tragic variant. "Coppelia" reflects a comedic sensibility. A doll-maker longs to infuse one of his creations with real life. He loves what his hands have made; the girl of his dreams not only projects beauty but torments him gently.
"Coppelia" boasts an engaged score, and delightful choreography for principals, soloists and the corps. It ranks among the most accessible of the classics. Gelsey Kirkland and Mikhail Baryshnikov made it one of the highlights in their shared repertoire.
"Coppelia" suits Valentine's Day. The Richmond Ballet's performances this weekend coincide with love's calendar. Don't miss it. The curtain has not risen, yet thirsty ears already hear the music and thirsty eyes already see what Lincoln Kirsten called movement and metaphor.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement