Oxford’s Phoenix Picturehouse is offering some holiday dance viewing in a recorded transmission from the Royal Opera House. “Fille is a treasure,” says Monica Mason, former Director of the Royal Ballet, and anyone who has seen this sunniest of ballets will certainly agree. With its origins in a work first seen in 1789, La Fille mal gardée was staged by several choreographers in the 19th century before Frederick Ashton brought it into the 20th century and created an instant classic which has never left the Royal Ballet’s repertory. The simple story of Lise, her suitor Colas and her larger-than-life mother, the Widow Simone – who tries to marry her off to the simpleton son of a rich neighbour – is full of delicious comedy and wonderful, characterful choreography. Funny and touching, La Fille mal gardée is the perfect ballet for first-timers of all ages, but it is also one to which ballet-lovers will return again and again with renewed pleasure at every performance.
Monday 5th August 6.30pm
La Fille mal gardée
Ballet in two acts; Running time 2 hrs (including one interval). Recorded in May 2012
Lise: Roberta Marquez
Colas: Steven McRae
Widow Simone: Philip Mosley
Orchestra of the Royal Opera House
Choreography: Frederick Ashton
Music: Ferdinand Hérold arranged by John Lanchbery
Conductor: Barry Wordsworth
To book tickets: http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema/Phoenix_Picturehouse/film/Roh_La_Fille_Mal_Gard_E/
Or call the Box Office:
0871 902 5736 (10p a minute from a landline)
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