Composer

:

John Lanchbery

Genre

:

Ballet

The Sentimental Bloke is a ballet composed by John Lanchbery, based on the 1915 Australian poem of the same name by C.J. Dennis. The ballet was first performed by the Australian Ballet in 1978, with choreography by Maina Gielgud. The plot of the ballet follows the story of Bill, a rough and tough Australian bloke who falls in love with a woman named Doreen. The ballet is divided into three movements, each representing a different stage in Bill and Doreen's relationship. The first movement, titled "The Bloke," introduces Bill and his rough and tumble lifestyle. He spends his days drinking and getting into fights, but when he meets Doreen, he is immediately smitten. The second movement, "The Sheilah," follows Bill and Doreen's courtship, as they fall in love and begin to build a life together. The final movement, "The Wedding," sees Bill and Doreen get married and start their new life together. The music of The Sentimental Bloke is characterized by its use of Australian folk music, including traditional songs and dances. Lanchbery's score also incorporates elements of classical ballet music, creating a unique blend of styles that perfectly captures the spirit of the Australian outback. The ballet premiered in Melbourne, Australia in 1978, and was an instant success. It has since been performed by ballet companies around the world, and has become a beloved classic of the Australian ballet repertoire. Overall, The Sentimental Bloke is a charming and heartwarming ballet that tells a timeless story of love and romance. With its beautiful music and expert choreography, it is a true masterpiece of the ballet world.

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