Frederick Ashton

Music by Ferdinand Herold / John Lanchbery

Past times, when one had to /wanted to/ was able to, guard young girls: Blissful or disastrous times…
Frederick Ashton reminisces on these times in his up-beat masterpiece of 1960. He tells the story of the young lovers Lise and Colas, the widow Simone, the farmer Thomas and his extremely clumsy son Alain in a brilliantly simple manner, with virtuosity and a focus on youthful naivety. There is much to take in for the eyes: A hay wagon, ponies, a rooster and his ladies, and folks dancing around the maypole who are surprised by a thunderstorm. Instantaneously, these charmingly innocent images accompanied by harmonious music can turn into intricate choreography which reminds us of the genius that was Frederick Ashton.

Only a few of the 20th century classics assume such high technical standards for its protagonists, in fact very few works can afford to be as simplistic in beauty, spiced with a hint of irony and topped off with a good portion of pure joy. “Very British!?” – let yourself be challenged by the attractive appeal of the English ballet that unites seemingly contradictory assets in its great works.

Cast

Choreography Frederick Ashton
Music Ferdinand Herold
John Lanchbery
Set and Costumes Osbert Lancaster
Conductor Myron Romanul


Soloists and corps de ballet of the Bavarian State Ballet
Münchner Symphoniker