City Ballet Celebrates 50 Years of Fun with Coppelia

In 1974, George Balanchine surprised audiences by staging the 19th-century ballet 'Coppelia' for the New York City Ballet, a company known for its innovative and experimental approach to classical dance. This decision marked a significant shift as the company had primarily focused on lean, no-frills performances. The ballet, featuring a lush score by Delibes and a fairy-tale setting, was anticipated with mixed emotions by critics and audiences alike, as noted by Marcia B. Siegel before its premiere at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center on July 17. Balanchine collaborated with Alexandra Danilova, a renowned ballerina and former romantic partner, to stage the ballet. Danilova's expertise, particularly her memory of the Petipa version, was instrumental in setting the first two acts, while Balanchine introduced new dances to enhance the production. The cast included Patricia McBride as Swanilda, Helgi Tomasson as Franz, and Shaun O’Brien as Doctor Coppelius, the eccentric toymaker. The story revolves around the love between Franz and Swanilda, which is complicated when Franz becomes enamored with a life-size doll created by Doctor Coppelius. Swanilda's clever impersonation of the doll leads to a resolution where she secures her relationship with Franz, culminating in wedding celebrations. This narrative, filled with humor and charm, resonated with audiences and contributed to the ballet's enduring popularity. As City Ballet celebrates the 50th anniversary of 'Coppelia,' the performances scheduled for September 27-29 and October 5-6 highlight the ballet's significance in the company's history and its impact on the world of dance. The success of 'Coppelia' has ensured its regular inclusion in the company's repertoire, showcasing the blend of tradition and innovation that Balanchine championed.