Darcey Bussell and Roberto Bolle star in Frederick
Ashton’s Sylvia, restored to the splendour of its elegant
and opulent three-act form for the 75th anniversary
celebrations of The Royal Ballet. Taken from Greek
mythology, it tells the story of Sylvia, loved by Aminta,
abducted by Orion and eventually rescued by Eros.
Ashton was inspired by the music of Léo Delibes to create
such great choreographic sequences as the famous Act 3
pas de deux and the mischievous role of Eros, one of the
delightful, darkly comic characterisations for which Ashton
became known and loved. Sylvia is a wonderful showcase
for virtuosity, invention and classical beauty, the epitome of
Ashton style in stage settings of great detail and painterly
perfection.
“This DVD… shows the Royal Ballet at the top of its…form. …makes an imperious huntress and a commanding Bacchante…”
The Stage
“[Darcey Bussell] dances with perfect precision in the pizzicato divertissement and is ravishingly radiant in the pas de deux powerfully partnered by Roberto Bolle who also displays some soaring elevation as the shepherd Aminta. Mara Galeazzi has developed into an accomplished performer and shines as Diana with Martin Harvey providing a superb and mischievous Eros. It is gorgeous - do not miss it”
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