Ballet: La Fille mal gardée (1789)
Introduction
La Fille mal gardée, often translated as “The Wayward Daughter” or “The Poorly Guarded Girl,” is one of the oldest and most enduring ballets in the classical repertoire. Choreographed by Jean Dauberval and set to a pastiche of popular French songs, the ballet premiered on July 1, 1789, at the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. The ballet’s light-hearted and pastoral theme revolves around the romantic entanglements of a young girl named Lise, her lover Colas, and her overprotective mother, Widow Simone.
Historical Background
Creation and Development
La Fille mal gardée was created during a period of significant social and political upheaval in France, just weeks before the French Revolution. The ballet’s pastoral setting and comedic elements provided a stark contrast to the turbulent times. Jean Dauberval, a student of the renowned choreographer Jean-Georges Noverre, drew inspiration from a popular French engraving titled “La Réprimande/Une jeune fille querellée par sa mère” by Pierre-Antoine Baudouin. The ballet’s storyline, which centers on the simple joys and challenges of rural life, was a departure from the mythological and aristocratic themes that dominated ballet at the time.
Dauberval collaborated with various composers to create a score that incorporated well-known French folk tunes and popular songs. This approach not only made the music more accessible to audiences but also added to the ballet’s charm and relatability.
Premiere and Reception
La Fille mal gardée premiered on July 1, 1789, at the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. The initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, with audiences and critics alike praising its innovative choreography, engaging storyline, and delightful music. The ballet quickly became a favorite in France and was soon performed in other European cities.
Notable early performances include those by the Paris Opera Ballet and the Royal Ballet in London. The ballet has undergone numerous revivals and adaptations over the centuries, each bringing its own unique interpretation to the timeless story.
Synopsis of the Ballet
Act I Summary
The ballet opens with a lively scene in a rural village. Lise, the daughter of Widow Simone, is in love with Colas, a young farmer. However, Widow Simone has other plans for her daughter and wants her to marry Alain, the son of a wealthy vineyard owner. Lise and Colas share a secret rendezvous, but their happiness is short-lived as Widow Simone catches them and scolds Lise. Despite her mother’s efforts to keep them apart, Lise and Colas continue to find ways to be together.
Act II Summary
In the second act, Widow Simone and Alain visit the village to finalize the marriage arrangements. Lise and Colas, with the help of their friends, devise a plan to outwit Widow Simone and Alain. The villagers join in the festivities, and there are several humorous and heartwarming moments as Lise and Colas try to stay one step ahead of Widow Simone. The act culminates in a joyous celebration as Lise and Colas finally receive Widow Simone’s reluctant blessing.
Finale
The ballet concludes with a grand wedding celebration for Lise and Colas. The entire village joins in the festivities, and the couple’s love triumphs over all obstacles. The finale is a jubilant and heartwarming conclusion to the ballet, emphasizing the themes of love, perseverance, and the triumph of true love over societal expectations.
Musical Composition
Composer’s Role
The original score for La Fille mal gardée was a pastiche of popular French songs and folk tunes, arranged by various composers. Over the years, several composers have contributed to the ballet’s music, including Ferdinand Hérold and John Lanchbery. Hérold’s 1828 arrangement is one of the most well-known versions, and Lanchbery’s 1960 adaptation for Frederick Ashton’s production is also highly regarded.
Musical Themes and Motifs
The music of La Fille mal gardée is characterized by its light-hearted and cheerful melodies, which perfectly complement the ballet’s pastoral setting and comedic elements. Recurring musical themes and motifs are used to represent the characters and their emotions, enhancing the narrative and adding depth to the story. For example, Lise and Colas’s love theme is a tender and romantic melody that recurs throughout the ballet, symbolizing their enduring love.
Famous Recordings and Performances
Several iconic recordings and performances of La Fille mal gardée‘s music have been made over the years. Notable recordings include those by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by John Lanchbery and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House conducted by Barry Wordsworth. These recordings capture the charm and vivacity of the ballet’s score, making them beloved by ballet enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Choreography and Dance
Choreographer’s Vision
Jean Dauberval’s choreography for La Fille mal gardée was innovative for its time, incorporating elements of folk dance and pantomime to create a more naturalistic and expressive style. Dauberval’s vision was to create a ballet that was accessible and relatable to audiences, moving away from the formal and aristocratic themes that dominated ballet at the time.
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Signature Dance Numbers
One of the most famous dance numbers in La Fille mal gardée is the “Clog Dance,” performed by Widow Simone. This humorous and lively dance showcases the character’s personality and adds a touch of comedy to the ballet. Another notable dance is the “Ribbon Dance,” a beautiful and intricate pas de deux between Lise and Colas that symbolizes their love and connection.
Notable Interpretations
Over the years, La Fille mal gardée has been interpreted and adapted by various choreographers, each bringing their own unique vision to the ballet. Frederick Ashton’s 1960 production for the Royal Ballet is one of the most famous and beloved interpretations, known for its charming choreography and delightful characterizations. Other notable productions include those by Marius Petipa and Alexander Gorsky, each adding their own distinctive style to the ballet.
Characters and Roles
Main Characters
- Lise: The young and spirited daughter of Widow Simone, Lise is in love with Colas and determined to be with him despite her mother’s objections.
- Colas: A handsome and kind-hearted young farmer who is deeply in love with Lise. He is clever and resourceful, always finding ways to be with Lise.
- Widow Simone: Lise’s overprotective and comical mother, who wants her daughter to marry Alain for financial security. Despite her strictness, she ultimately wants the best for Lise.
- Alain: The son of a wealthy vineyard owner, Alain is awkward and bumbling but well-meaning. He is infatuated with Lise but ultimately steps aside for her happiness.
Supporting Characters
- Thomas: Alain’s father, who supports the marriage between Alain and Lise.
- The Villagers: Friends and neighbors who play a significant role in the ballet’s various scenes and celebrations.
Famous Dancers
Over the years, many renowned dancers have portrayed the roles in La Fille mal gardée. Notable performers include Margot Fonteyn and Michael Somes in Frederick Ashton’s production, as well as Natalia Osipova and Steven McRae in more recent performances by the Royal Ballet.
Cultural and Artistic Impact
Influence on Ballet and Dance
La Fille mal gardée has had a significant influence on the development of ballet as an art form. Its innovative choreography, use of folk dance elements, and relatable storyline set a new standard for narrative ballets. The ballet’s success also paved the way for other choreographers to explore more diverse and accessible themes in their work.
Cultural Significance
The ballet’s enduring popularity has made it a beloved classic in the world of dance. Its themes of love, perseverance, and the triumph of true love over societal expectations resonate with audiences of all ages. La Fille mal gardée has also been adapted into various forms, including film and theater, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Legacy and Revivals
La Fille mal gardée continues to be performed and celebrated today, with major revivals by companies such as the Royal Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, and Bolshoi Ballet. Each new production brings its own unique interpretation to the ballet, ensuring its timeless appeal and relevance for future generations.
Iconic Productions
Historic Productions
One of the most famous historical productions of La Fille mal gardée is Frederick Ashton’s 1960 version for the Royal Ballet. This production is renowned for its charming choreography, delightful characterizations, and innovative use of props such as ribbons and clogs. Other notable historical productions include those by Marius Petipa and Alexander Gorsky, each adding their own distinctive style to the ballet.
Contemporary Productions
Recent productions of La Fille mal gardée continue to captivate audiences with their fresh interpretations and innovative choreography. Companies such as the Royal Ballet and Paris Opera Ballet have staged successful revivals, incorporating modern elements while staying true to the ballet’s original charm and spirit.
Production Design
The set, costume, and lighting design in various productions of La Fille mal gardée play a crucial role in bringing the pastoral setting and characters to life. Traditional designs often feature rustic village scenes, colorful costumes, and warm lighting to create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. Contemporary productions may incorporate more modern elements, but they typically retain the ballet’s whimsical and light-hearted aesthetic.
Critical Reception and Reviews
Initial Critical Response
At the time of its premiere, La Fille mal gardée received overwhelmingly positive reviews from both critics and audiences. The ballet was praised for its innovative choreography, engaging storyline, and delightful music. Critics noted its departure from the formal and aristocratic themes that dominated ballet at the time, highlighting its accessibility and relatability.
Modern Reviews
Contemporary critics and audiences continue to appreciate La Fille mal gardée for its timeless charm and enduring appeal. Modern reviews often highlight the ballet’s humor, heartwarming storyline, and innovative choreography. The ballet remains a favorite in the classical repertoire, with many considering it a masterpiece of narrative ballet.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
One interesting behind-the-scenes story involves Frederick Ashton’s 1960 production for the Royal Ballet. Ashton himself performed the role of Widow Simone in several performances, adding his own unique comedic flair to the character. This casting choice delighted audiences and added an extra layer of humor to the ballet.
Notable Performers
Over the years, many famous dancers have been associated with La Fille mal gardée. Margot Fonteyn and Michael Somes are among the most renowned performers, having starred in Frederick Ashton’s iconic production. More recently, dancers such as Natalia Osipova and Steven McRae have brought their own unique interpretations to the roles of Lise and Colas.
Trivia
- Oldest Ballet: La Fille mal gardée is one of the oldest ballets still performed today, having premiered in 1789.
- Clog Dance: The famous “Clog Dance” performed by Widow Simone is a unique and humorous element of the ballet, showcasing the character’s personality.
- Ribbon Dance: The intricate “Ribbon Dance” between Lise and Colas is a highlight of the ballet, symbolizing their love and connection.
Conclusion
Summary of the Ballet’s Importance
La Fille mal gardée is a significant work in the world of dance, known for its innovative choreography, engaging storyline, and delightful music. Its themes of love, perseverance, and the triumph of true love over societal expectations resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a beloved classic in the ballet repertoire.
Final Thoughts
La Fille mal gardée continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm and enduring appeal. Whether you are a seasoned ballet enthusiast or a newcomer to the art form, this delightful ballet is sure to enchant and entertain. We encourage readers to watch a performance or listen to the score to experience the magic of La Fille mal gardée for themselves.
FAQ
What is the central theme of this ballet?
The central theme of La Fille mal gardée is the triumph of true love over societal expectations and obstacles. The ballet emphasizes themes of love, perseverance, and the importance of following one’s heart.
Who are the main characters in this ballet?
The main characters in La Fille mal gardée are Lise, a young girl in love with Colas; Colas, a young farmer who loves Lise; Widow Simone, Lise’s overprotective mother; and Alain, the son of a wealthy vineyard owner who is infatuated with Lise.
What is the most famous dance number in this ballet?
One of the most famous dance numbers in La Fille mal gardée is the “Clog Dance,” performed by Widow Simone. Another notable dance is the “Ribbon Dance,” a beautiful pas de deux between Lise and Colas.
How long does a typical performance of this ballet last?
A typical performance of La Fille mal gardée lasts approximately two hours, including intermissions.
Are there any modern adaptations of this ballet?
Yes, there have been several modern adaptations of La Fille mal gardée, including Frederick Ashton’s 1960 production for the Royal Ballet. Contemporary productions often incorporate modern elements while staying true to the ballet’s original charm and spirit.
Why is this ballet considered important in the history of dance?
La Fille mal gardée is considered important in the history of dance for its innovative choreography, use of folk dance elements, and relatable storyline. It set a new standard for narrative ballets and paved the way for other choreographers to explore more diverse and accessible themes in their work.
