Composer

:

Léo Delibes

Genre

:

Ballet

Style

:

Ballet

Compose Date

:

1870

Publication Date

:

1870

First Performance

:

May 25, 1870

Average_duration

:

77:22

Movement_count

:

33

Movement ....

Coppélia is a comic ballet composed by Léo Delibes in 1870. The plot revolves around a young couple, Franz and Swanilda, who live in a small village. Franz becomes infatuated with a beautiful girl named Coppélia, who sits on the balcony of a mysterious inventor, Dr. Coppélius. Swanilda becomes jealous and decides to investigate, discovering that Coppélia is actually a life-sized doll created by Dr. Coppélius. The ballet premiered on May 25, 1870, at the Théâtre Impérial l'Opéra in Paris, France. It was choreographed by Arthur Saint-Léon and was an immediate success. The ballet was later revised by Marius Petipa and Enrico Cecchetti in 1894, and this version is the one most commonly performed today. The ballet is divided into three acts, each with its own distinct movements. The first act introduces the village and its inhabitants, including Franz and Swanilda. The second act takes place in Dr. Coppélius' workshop, where Franz has been lured by the inventor to bring Coppélia to life. The third act features a wedding celebration for Franz and Swanilda, with Dr. Coppélius attempting to disrupt the festivities. One of the most notable characteristics of Coppélia is its use of pantomime. The dancers use exaggerated gestures and facial expressions to convey the story, as there is no spoken dialogue. The ballet also features a number of character dances, including a mazurka and a czardas. The music of Coppélia is known for its light and playful melodies, with highlights including the "Waltz of the Hours" and the "Dance of the Dolls." The score also includes a number of folk-inspired tunes, reflecting the ballet's rural setting. Overall, Coppélia remains a beloved classic of the ballet repertoire, known for its charming story, lively choreography, and delightful music.

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