Ballet: La Fille mal gardée (Ashton, 1960)
Introduction
La Fille mal gardée, choreographed by Sir Frederick Ashton in 1960, is a delightful and enduring ballet that has captivated audiences for decades. Set to a score by Ferdinand Hérold, arranged and orchestrated by John Lanchbery, the ballet premiered on January 28, 1960, at the Royal Opera House in London. The ballet tells the charming story of Lise, a young girl in love with a farmer named Colas, and her attempts to outwit her overprotective mother, Widow Simone, who has other matrimonial plans for her daughter.
Historical Background
Creation and Development
La Fille mal gardée was created during a period of significant artistic innovation and cultural change. The ballet’s origins can be traced back to 1789, when it was first choreographed by Jean Dauberval. Ashton’s version, however, was heavily influenced by the social and artistic milieu of the mid-20th century, a time when ballet was evolving to include more narrative-driven and character-rich performances.
Ashton drew inspiration from the original 18th-century ballet, which itself was influenced by French pastoral literature and folklore. The collaboration between Ashton and composer John Lanchbery was crucial in bringing this ballet to life. Lanchbery’s arrangement of Hérold’s score added a fresh and vibrant dimension to the production, making it accessible and enjoyable for contemporary audiences.
Premiere and Reception
The premiere of Ashton’s La Fille mal gardée took place on January 28, 1960, at the Royal Opera House in London. The initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, with critics and audiences alike praising the ballet for its charm, humor, and technical brilliance. Notable early performances featured some of the era’s most celebrated dancers, including Nadia Nerina as Lise and David Blair as Colas. The ballet quickly became a staple in the repertoires of major ballet companies worldwide.
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. The act is filled with playful and humorous moments as Lise and Colas try to find ways to be together despite Widow Simone’s watchful eye. Key characters introduced include Lise, Colas, Widow Simone, and Alain.
Act II Summary
In the second act, the action moves to Widow Simone’s farmhouse. Lise and Colas continue their attempts to outsmart Widow Simone, leading to a series of comedic and romantic escapades. The act features the famous “Clog Dance” performed by Widow Simone, which is one of the ballet’s most iconic moments. The act ends with Lise being locked in her room by her mother, who is determined to keep her away from Colas.
Act III Summary
The final act takes place in the barn, where preparations for Lise’s wedding to Alain are underway. However, Lise and Colas manage to outwit everyone and reveal their love for each other. In a heartwarming conclusion, Widow Simone relents and gives her blessing to the young couple. The ballet ends with a joyful celebration of Lise and Colas’s union.
Finale
The conclusion of La Fille mal gardée is significant as it underscores the triumph of true love and youthful ingenuity over societal expectations and parental control. The joyous finale, with its vibrant choreography and uplifting music, leaves the audience with a sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Musical Composition
Composer’s Role
Ferdinand Hérold composed the original score for La Fille mal gardée, but it was John Lanchbery’s arrangement and orchestration that brought the music to life in Ashton’s version. Lanchbery’s contribution was pivotal in creating a score that was both faithful to the original and appealing to modern audiences. Notable pieces within the score include the “Clog Dance” and the “Ribbon Dance,” both of which are integral to the ballet’s narrative and emotional impact.
Musical Themes and Motifs
The music of La Fille mal gardée is characterized by its light-hearted and pastoral themes. Recurring motifs, such as the playful melodies associated with Lise and Colas’s love, enhance the narrative and underscore the ballet’s comedic and romantic elements. The music effectively conveys the emotions of the characters, from the exuberance of young love to the comedic frustration of Widow Simone.
Famous Recordings and Performances
There have been several iconic recordings and performances of La Fille mal gardée‘s music. Notable among them is the recording by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by John Lanchbery, which remains a definitive interpretation of the score. Additionally, performances by renowned ballet companies such as the Royal Ballet and the Paris Opera Ballet have further cemented the music’s place in the ballet repertoire.
Choreography and Dance
Choreographer’s Vision
Sir Frederick Ashton’s vision for La Fille mal gardée was to create a ballet that was both technically demanding and rich in character and humor. Ashton’s choreography is known for its intricate footwork, expressive mime, and innovative use of props, such as ribbons and clogs. His interpretation brought a fresh and modern sensibility to the traditional story, making it accessible and enjoyable for contemporary audiences.
Signature Dance Numbers
Key dance numbers in La Fille mal gardée include the “Ribbon Dance,” where Lise and Colas use ribbons to express their love, and the “Clog Dance,” performed by Widow Simone. These dances are not only technically impressive but also serve to advance the story and develop the characters. The “Pas de Deux” between Lise and Colas is another highlight, showcasing their romantic connection and technical prowess.
Notable Interpretations
Over the years, different productions of La Fille mal gardée have brought unique interpretations to Ashton’s choreography. Some have emphasized the comedic elements, while others have focused on the romantic and pastoral aspects. Notable interpretations include those by the Royal Ballet, which has maintained the original choreography, and more contemporary productions that have introduced subtle changes to reflect modern sensibilities.
Characters and Roles
Main Characters
- Lise: The protagonist, a young girl in love with Colas. She is clever, resourceful, and determined to be with her true love.
- Colas: A young farmer who loves Lise. He is charming, persistent, and willing to go to great lengths to win Lise’s hand.
- Widow Simone: Lise’s overprotective mother who wants her daughter to marry Alain. She is a comedic character known for her “Clog Dance.”
- Alain: The son of a wealthy vineyard owner, chosen by Widow Simone as Lise’s suitor. He is awkward and bumbling, providing much of the ballet’s humor.
Supporting Characters
- Thomas: Alain’s father, who supports the marriage between Alain and Lise.
- Friends and Villagers: They add to the lively atmosphere of the village and participate in various dances and scenes.
Famous Dancers
Notable dancers who have portrayed these roles include Nadia Nerina and David Blair in the original 1960 production. More recent interpretations have featured dancers such as Marianela Nuñez and Carlos Acosta, who have brought their own unique styles to the characters of Lise and Colas.
Cultural and Artistic Impact
Influence on Ballet and Dance
La Fille mal gardée has had a significant influence on ballet and dance. Its blend of technical brilliance, character-driven storytelling, and humor has inspired other choreographers to explore similar themes. The ballet’s success also helped to solidify narrative ballets as a vital part of the ballet repertoire.
Cultural Significance
The ballet holds a special place in popular culture, often referenced in literature, theater, and other media. Its themes of young love and defiance against parental control resonate with audiences across generations. The ballet has also been adapted into various forms, including film and television productions.
Legacy and Revivals
La Fille mal gardée continues to be performed and celebrated today. Major revivals by companies such as the Royal Ballet and the Paris Opera Ballet have kept the ballet alive for new audiences. Modern adaptations have introduced subtle changes while preserving the essence of Ashton’s choreography, ensuring the ballet’s enduring legacy.
Iconic Productions
Historic Productions
Historic productions of La Fille mal gardée include the original 1960 premiere at the Royal Opera House, which featured Nadia Nerina and David Blair. This production set the standard for future performances and established the ballet as a classic in the repertoire.
Contemporary Productions
Recent productions have brought new interpretations to the ballet while maintaining its core elements. The Royal Ballet’s 2015 production, featuring Marianela Nuñez and Carlos Acosta, received critical acclaim for its fresh take on Ashton’s choreography. Contemporary productions often incorporate modern set and costume designs, adding a new dimension to the classic story.
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 to life. Traditional designs often feature rustic village scenes, colorful costumes, and bright lighting to reflect the ballet’s cheerful and light-hearted nature. Modern productions may introduce more stylized elements while preserving the essence of the original design.
Critical Reception and Reviews
Initial Critical Response
The initial critical response to Ashton’s La Fille mal gardée was overwhelmingly positive. Critics praised the ballet for its charm, humor, and technical brilliance. The performances of Nadia Nerina and David Blair were particularly lauded for their chemistry and skill.
Modern Reviews
Contemporary critics continue to view La Fille mal gardée favorably, often highlighting its timeless appeal and the enduring relevance of its themes. Modern audiences appreciate the ballet’s blend of humor, romance, and technical excellence, ensuring its place in the ballet repertoire for years to come.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
One interesting anecdote from the original production involves Nadia Nerina, who played Lise. During rehearsals, she reportedly improvised several comedic moments that were later incorporated into the final choreography. This spontaneity added to the ballet’s charm and humor.
Notable Performers
Famous dancers associated with La Fille mal gardée include Nadia Nerina, David Blair, Marianela Nuñez, and Carlos Acosta. Each of these performers has brought their own unique interpretation to the roles, contributing to the ballet’s rich performance history.
Trivia
- The original 1789 version of La Fille mal gardée is one of the oldest ballets still performed today.
- Ashton’s version of the ballet includes a live pony in some productions, adding to the pastoral charm of the setting.
- The “Clog Dance” performed by Widow Simone is one of the few instances in classical ballet where a character dances in clogs.
Conclusion
Summary of the Ballet’s Importance
La Fille mal gardée is significant in the world of dance for its blend of technical brilliance, character-driven storytelling, and humor. Ashton’s choreography, combined with Lanchbery’s arrangement of Hérold’s score, has created a ballet that is both timeless and accessible to modern audiences.
Final Thoughts
La Fille mal gardée remains a beloved classic in the ballet repertoire. Its themes of young love, defiance against parental control, and the triumph of true love continue to resonate with audiences. Whether you are a seasoned ballet enthusiast or a newcomer to the art form, La Fille mal gardée offers a delightful and enriching experience. I encourage readers to watch a performance or listen to the score to fully appreciate the charm and beauty of this enduring ballet.
FAQ
What is the central theme of this ballet?
The central theme of La Fille mal gardée is the triumph of true love and youthful ingenuity over societal expectations and parental control.
Who are the main characters in this ballet?
The main characters are Lise, a young girl in love with Colas; Colas, a young farmer; Widow Simone, Lise’s overprotective mother; and Alain, the awkward suitor chosen by Widow Simone.
What is the most famous dance number in this ballet?
The most famous dance number is the “Clog Dance,” performed by Widow Simone. Other notable dances include the “Ribbon Dance” and the “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 contemporary productions that introduce subtle changes while preserving the essence of Ashton’s choreography.
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 blend of technical brilliance, character-driven storytelling, and humor. It has influenced other works and choreographers and remains a beloved classic in the ballet repertoire.
