What Is Scheherazade Ballet About?

Ballet

Scheherazade is a ballet created by French composer Michel Fokine in 1910. It is based off of a story from One Thousand and One Nights, an ancient collection of Middle Eastern and Indian folk tales. The story tells the tale of Scheherazade, a beautiful young woman who must marry a Sultan but has the courage to save herself from him through her wit and charm.

The ballet is set to Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s symphonic suite, which was inspired by the stories from One Thousand and One Nights. The suite includes four movements: “The Sea and Sinbad’s Ship”, “The Kalandar Prince”, “The Young Prince and Princess” and “Festival at Baghdad”. Each movement tells its own part of the story, with music that captures the exoticism of the Middle Eastern setting.

When it premiered in 1910 at the Ballets Russes in Paris, Scheherazade was an immediate success. It was choreographed by Michel Fokine, who had already established himself as one of the leading choreographers of his time. His use of exotic sets, costumes and music made Scheherazade one of the most visually stunning ballets ever seen.

Since its premiere, Scheherazade has become one of the most beloved ballets in history. It has been performed around the world by countless companies including Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, The Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theater and New York City Ballet. It has also been adapted for film several times including Disney’s Fantasia 2000.

Conclusion:

What is Scheherazade ballet about? Scheherazade is an enchanting ballet based on a classic story from One Thousand and One Nights with music composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Set in exotic locations with stunning costumes and choreography by Michel Fokine, it remains one of the most beloved ballets in history today.