Ballet Pulcinella is a ballet composed by Igor Stravinsky in 1920. It is based on an 18th century Commedia dell’arte scenario, and was commissioned by Sergei Diaghilev of the Ballets Russes. The work premiered on 15 May 1920 at the Théâtre Royal de Monte Carlo in Monte Carlo, Monaco.
The story of Ballet Pulcinella is derived from a commedia dell’arte scenario attributed to Giovanni Battista Pergolesi. It tells the story of Pulcinella and his friends who are invited to a wedding, but are faced with several obstacles along the way to prevent their attendance. Eventually they manage to overcome these problems and make it to the wedding in time for the festivities.
The music for Ballet Pulcinella is noteworthy for its use of neoclassicism, which was Stravinsky’s style at the time of composition. He drew heavily from 18th century Italian music for inspiration, as well as from melodies he heard in Naples during his visit there in 1909. The ballet is composed of 18 musical numbers that alternate between lively dance movements and slower sections with lyrical melodies.
Ballet Pulcinella has been performed by many different companies around the world since its premiere in 1920. It has become one of Stravinsky’s most popular ballets and remains an important part of the classical repertoire today. The ballet has been staged with various designs, costumes and choreography over the years, but it often remains faithful to its original staging with sets designed by Pablo Picasso and costumes created by Coco Chanel.
Conclusion:
Ballet Pulcinella is a classic work from Igor Stravinsky that draws heavily from 18th century Italian music for inspiration. It tells the story of Pulcinella and his friends who are invited to a wedding, but are faced with several obstacles along the way. With its use of neoclassicism and lively dance movements set against lyrical melodies, Ballet Pulcinella has become one of Stravinsky’s most popular ballets and continues to be performed around the world today.