Who Composed the Ballet Mother Goose?

Ballet

The ballet “Mother Goose” was first composed in 1910 by Russian composer Sergei Diaghilev and choreographer Michel Fokine. The ballet is based on the classic fairy tale of the same name, and centers around the adventures of Mother Goose and her three children. It was first performed at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, and quickly became a popular success.

The original production featured a star-studded cast, including Anna Pavlova as Mother Goose, Mikhail Mordkin as Father Goose, and Vaslav Nijinsky as one of the children. Diaghilev’s innovative score combines traditional Russian folk music with modern elements such as jazz and ragtime. The costumes were designed by Nikolai Roerich, while Alexandre Benois was responsible for the scenic design.

Diaghilev’s production went on to be performed in cities across Europe, including London, Paris, Vienna, Berlin, and Amsterdam. It was also staged in New York City in 1915 at the Metropolitan Opera House. The ballet received mixed reviews from critics but was widely praised for its creative use of music and dance.

The story has been adapted for stage numerous times since its premiere performance more than a century ago. In 1975, English composer Peter Maxwell Davies created a new version of “Mother Goose”, which premiered at Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London. More recently, British choreographer Matthew Bourne created an all-male version of the ballet which premiered in 2011.

Conclusion:

Sergei Diaghilev is credited with composing the original ballet version of “Mother Goose” which debuted in 1910 at the Mariinsky Theatre in St Petersburg. His innovative score combined traditional Russian folk music with modern elements such as jazz and ragtime to create an experience that has been enjoyed by audiences across Europe over the past century. Since then, various other adaptations have been staged by renowned composers and choreographers including Peter Maxwell Davies and Matthew Bourne.