Composer

:

George Antheil

Genre

:

Ballet

Style

:

Ballet

Compose Date

:

1952

Publication Date

:

1954

First Performance

:

Dec 6, 1953

Average_duration

:

29:09

'Capital of the World, W. 249' is a ballet composed by George Antheil in 1953. The plot of the ballet revolves around a young Spanish boy named Paco who dreams of becoming a bullfighter. He leaves his small village and travels to Madrid, where he hopes to find fame and fortune. However, he soon discovers that life in the big city is not as glamorous as he had imagined. He struggles to make ends meet and is forced to take on odd jobs to survive. The ballet is divided into three movements. The first movement, titled "Paco's Dream," introduces the audience to the protagonist and his aspirations. The music is lively and upbeat, reflecting Paco's youthful energy and enthusiasm. The second movement, "Madrid," is more somber and reflective. It depicts the harsh realities of life in the city, with its crowded streets and poverty-stricken neighborhoods. The final movement, "The Bullfight," is the climax of the ballet. It features a dramatic showdown between Paco and a fierce bull, with the music building to a crescendo as the two adversaries face off. One of the most notable characteristics of 'Capital of the World, W. 249' is its use of percussion instruments. Antheil was known for his innovative approach to music composition, and he incorporated a wide range of percussion instruments into the score. This gives the music a distinctive, rhythmic quality that complements the energetic choreography. The ballet premiered on May 21, 1953, at the New York City Center. It was choreographed by Jerome Robbins, who was known for his groundbreaking work in the field of ballet. The production was well-received by audiences and critics alike, with many praising Antheil's score for its originality and vitality. Overall, 'Capital of the World, W. 249' is a vibrant and engaging ballet that captures the spirit of post-war America. Its themes of ambition, struggle, and perseverance resonate with audiences to this day, making it a timeless classic of the ballet repertoire.

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