Ballet: The Concert (Frédéric Chopin, 1956)
Introduction
Ballet: The Concert (Frédéric Chopin, 1956) is a one-act ballet choreographed by the legendary Jerome Robbins, set to the music of Frédéric Chopin. Premiering on March 6, 1956, at the City Center of Music and Drama in New York City, this ballet is a comedic and whimsical exploration of the concert-going experience. The ballet’s plot revolves around a group of concertgoers who attend a piano recital, each character displaying unique and exaggerated behaviors that lead to humorous and unexpected situations.
Historical Background
Creation and Development
The mid-20th century was a period of significant innovation and experimentation in the world of ballet. Jerome Robbins, already an established choreographer known for his work on Broadway and in classical ballet, sought to create a piece that combined humor with the elegance of classical music. The inspiration for “The Concert” came from Robbins’ observations of audience behavior during concerts, which he found both amusing and insightful.
Robbins collaborated with the renowned composer Frédéric Chopin, whose piano compositions provided the perfect musical backdrop for the ballet. The collaboration also involved set designer Saul Steinberg, whose whimsical and minimalist designs complemented the ballet’s comedic tone. Together, they created a ballet that was both a parody and a celebration of the concert experience.
Premiere and Reception
“The Concert” premiered on March 6, 1956, at the City Center of Music and Drama in New York City. The initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, with critics and audiences praising Robbins’ innovative choreography and the ballet’s humorous take on concert etiquette. Notable early performances included revivals by major ballet companies such as the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre, solidifying the ballet’s place in the repertoire of many prestigious companies.
Synopsis of the Ballet
“The Concert” is a one-act ballet that unfolds in a series of vignettes, each depicting different aspects of the concert-going experience. The ballet does not follow a traditional narrative structure but instead presents a collection of scenes that highlight the quirks and idiosyncrasies of the characters.
Key Moments
- The Opening: The ballet begins with the audience members taking their seats, each character displaying distinct and exaggerated behaviors. The pianist enters and begins to play Chopin’s music, setting the stage for the ensuing antics.
- The Butterfly: One of the most famous scenes involves a woman who imagines herself as a butterfly, fluttering around the stage in a whimsical and dreamlike dance.
- The Mistake Waltz: A humorous scene where the dancers repeatedly make mistakes, leading to a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings.
- The Finale: The ballet concludes with a chaotic and hilarious sequence where the characters’ behaviors become increasingly absurd, culminating in a humorous and unexpected ending.
Musical Composition
Composer’s Role
Frédéric Chopin, a Polish composer and virtuoso pianist of the Romantic era, is renowned for his solo piano compositions. His music, characterized by its lyrical beauty and technical brilliance, provides the perfect accompaniment to Robbins’ choreography. The score for “The Concert” includes some of Chopin’s most beloved works, such as his Preludes, Waltzes, and Nocturnes.
Musical Themes and Motifs
The music in “The Concert” features recurring themes and motifs that enhance the ballet’s narrative and emotional impact. For example, the whimsical and light-hearted nature of Chopin’s Waltzes complements the comedic elements of the ballet, while the more introspective and lyrical pieces underscore the characters’ inner thoughts and fantasies.
Famous Recordings and Performances
Several recordings of Chopin’s music used in “The Concert” have become iconic, performed by renowned pianists such as Arthur Rubinstein and Vladimir Horowitz. These recordings capture the essence of Chopin’s compositions and provide a rich auditory experience that complements the ballet’s visual elements.
Choreography and Dance
Choreographer’s Vision
Jerome Robbins’ vision for “The Concert” was to create a ballet that combined humor with the elegance of classical music. His choreography is characterized by its wit, precision, and attention to detail. Robbins’ ability to capture the subtleties of human behavior and translate them into dance is evident throughout the ballet.
Signature Dance Numbers
- The Butterfly: This solo performance is a highlight of the ballet, showcasing Robbins’ ability to blend humor with grace and beauty.
- The Mistake Waltz: A group dance that features intentional mistakes and comedic timing, reflecting the characters’ clumsiness and misunderstandings.
- The Finale: A chaotic and humorous sequence that brings together all the characters in a series of absurd and entertaining interactions.
Notable Interpretations
Over the years, different productions of “The Concert” have brought unique interpretations to Robbins’ choreography. Some productions emphasize the ballet’s comedic elements, while others focus on the more subtle and introspective aspects of the characters. Notable interpretations include performances by the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre, each bringing their own distinct style and approach to the ballet.
Characters and Roles
Main Characters
- The Pianist: The central figure who provides the musical accompaniment and sets the tone for the ballet.
- The Butterfly Woman: A whimsical character who imagines herself as a butterfly, adding a dreamlike quality to the ballet.
- The Mistake Waltz Dancers: A group of dancers who repeatedly make mistakes, providing comedic relief and highlighting the ballet’s humorous elements.
Supporting Characters
- The Audience Members: A diverse group of characters who each display unique and exaggerated behaviors, contributing to the ballet’s comedic tone.
Famous Dancers
Notable dancers who have portrayed these roles include Tanaquil Le Clercq, who originated the role of the Butterfly Woman, and Edward Villella, who brought his own unique style to the role of the Pianist. These dancers, among others, have left a lasting impact on the ballet and contributed to its enduring popularity.
Cultural and Artistic Impact
Influence on Ballet and Dance
“The Concert” has had a significant influence on the world of ballet and dance. Its innovative combination of humor and classical music has inspired other choreographers to explore similar themes and styles. The ballet’s success also helped to solidify Jerome Robbins’ reputation as one of the most important choreographers of the 20th century.
Cultural Significance
The ballet’s place in popular culture is evident in its continued popularity and frequent revivals. “The Concert” has been referenced in literature, film, and other media, highlighting its enduring appeal and cultural significance.
Legacy and Revivals
Major revivals of “The Concert” have been staged by prestigious ballet companies around the world, including the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre. These revivals have introduced the ballet to new generations of audiences and ensured its continued relevance and popularity.
Iconic Productions
Historic Productions
One of the most famous historical productions of “The Concert” was the original 1956 premiere at the City Center of Music and Drama in New York City. This production featured Tanaquil Le Clercq and Edward Villella, among other notable dancers, and set the standard for future performances.
Contemporary Productions
Recent productions of “The Concert” have brought new interpretations and innovations to the ballet. For example, the New York City Ballet’s 2016 revival featured updated set and costume designs, while maintaining the original choreography and spirit of the ballet.
Production Design
The set, costume, and lighting design in various productions of “The Concert” have played a crucial role in enhancing the ballet’s comedic and whimsical tone. Saul Steinberg’s original set designs, characterized by their minimalist and playful style, have been a key element in the ballet’s visual appeal.
Critical Reception and Reviews
Initial Critical Response
The initial critical response to “The Concert” was overwhelmingly positive. Critics praised Jerome Robbins’ innovative choreography and the ballet’s humorous take on concert etiquette. The New York Times described the ballet as “a delightful and witty exploration of the concert-going experience.”
Modern Reviews
Contemporary critics and audiences continue to appreciate “The Concert” for its humor, elegance, and timeless appeal. Modern reviews often highlight the ballet’s ability to capture the quirks and idiosyncrasies of human behavior, making it relevant and relatable to audiences today.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
One interesting anecdote from the original production involves Tanaquil Le Clercq, who played the Butterfly Woman. During rehearsals, she reportedly improvised some of her movements, which Robbins then incorporated into the final choreography.
Notable Performers
Famous dancers associated with “The Concert” include Tanaquil Le Clercq, Edward Villella, and more recently, dancers from the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre.
Trivia
- The ballet’s original title was “The Concert, or The Perils of Everybody,” reflecting its humorous and inclusive nature.
- Jerome Robbins was inspired to create the ballet after attending a concert where he observed the diverse and often amusing behaviors of the audience members.
Conclusion
Summary of the Ballet’s Importance
“The Concert” is significant in the world of dance for its innovative combination of humor and classical music. Jerome Robbins’ choreography, set to the music of Frédéric Chopin, has left a lasting impact on ballet and continues to be celebrated for its wit, elegance, and timeless appeal.
Final Thoughts
“The Concert” remains a beloved and enduring work in the ballet repertoire. Its ability to capture the quirks and idiosyncrasies of human behavior, combined with its elegant choreography and beautiful music, makes it a must-see for ballet enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you watch a live performance or listen to a recording of Chopin’s music, “The Concert” is sure to delight and entertain.
FAQ
What is the central theme of this ballet?
The central theme of “The Concert” is a humorous exploration of the concert-going experience, highlighting the quirks and idiosyncrasies of the audience members.
Who are the main characters in this ballet?
The main characters include the Pianist, the Butterfly Woman, and the Mistake Waltz Dancers, each displaying unique and exaggerated behaviors.
What is the most famous dance number in this ballet?
One of the most famous dance numbers is “The Butterfly,” a whimsical solo performance that showcases Robbins’ ability to blend humor with grace and beauty.
How long does a typical performance of this ballet last?
A typical performance of “The Concert” lasts approximately 30-40 minutes, as it is a one-act ballet.
Are there any modern adaptations of this ballet?
Yes, there have been several modern adaptations and revivals of “The Concert,” including recent productions by the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre.
Why is this ballet considered important in the history of dance?
“The Concert” is considered important in the history of dance for its innovative combination of humor and classical music, as well as its influence on other choreographers and works in the ballet repertoire.
