Coppélia has an important place in The Australian Ballet’s history. It was performed during the company’s inaugural season in 1962. The ballet was revived in 1979 in a new production by The Australian Ballet’s founding Artistic Director Dame Peggy van Praagh and the renowned theatre director George Ogilvie. Before returning once again in 2010.
In the classic tale, Dr Coppelius, an eccentric toy maker, dreams of bringing his mechanical “daughter” to life. Meanwhile, in the village, Swanilda and Franz are in love. But a beautiful stranger appears in town, and Franz is fascinated. Swanilda must rescue Franz from the magician’s sinister lair before it’s too late.
Sets and costumes designed by the late Kristian Fredrikson have been lovingly restored for this season.
