What Is the Oldest Ballet in Present Repertoire?

Ballet

Ballet is an art form that has been around for centuries, and it is no surprise that some ballets have been around for a very long time. One of the oldest ballets in current repertoire is La Fille Mal Gardée, which was first performed in 1789.

The ballet was created by Jean Dauberval, a French dancer and choreographer who had studied under the legendary Jean-Georges Noverre. La Fille Mal Gardée tells the story of a love triangle between Lise, Colas and Simone, with a happy ending when Lise and Colas are reunited. The ballet features traditional folk elements such as clog-dancing and ribbon-dancing, which were both popular at the time of its conception.

In its modern form, La Fille Mal Gardée has been performed all over the world by companies such as the Royal Ballet in London, the New York City Ballet, and the Australian Ballet. It is also often included on school syllabi for students who are studying ballet technique. The choreography has been revised several times over the years to fit with contemporary tastes and styles.

La Fille Mal Gardée has become a beloved classic that continues to be seen by audiences today. Its simple yet heartwarming story makes it an ideal choice for all ages to enjoy, particularly those new to ballet who might not be familiar with more intricate pieces from later eras of ballet history. As one of the oldest ballets in present repertoire, it stands as a testament to how timeless this art form can be when it is handled properly.

Conclusion

La Fille Mal Gardée is an amazing example of how ballet can stand the test of time, remaining relevant even after centuries since its first performance. It is one of the oldest ballets in present repertoire and continues to entertain audiences with its simple yet beautiful story.