Queensland Ballet’s first mainstage season for 2014 is a captivating new production of Coppélia choreographed by Greg Horsman.
This brand new production will have its world première in Brisbane on Thursday 24 April at the Playhouse, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).
The ballet tells the story of the eccentric Dr Coppélius and his invention of Coppélia, a life-like doll, who causes comic chaos between two young lovers, Franz and Swanilda, but the lovers unite and there is a happy ending.
Setting the much-loved story in the small Australian town of Hahdorf in the late 19th century, Horsman has created a touching and witty ballet, with endearing stories characters inspired by Australian history.
Coppélia is one of the most popular and well known ballets in the classical repertoire.
“I have great respect and affection for traditional ballet productions, but I think it’s important to give them a context that relates to our communities and audiences,” says Horsman.
“I began by looking at setting the story in a different place and period to the original setting. I also wanted to give Dr. Coppélius’ character more context and background, and give him a reason for creating this life-like doll.
“In the scenario I have created, Dr Coppélius’ daughter tragically dies at sea during their journey to migrate from Germany to Australia. In his sadness and mourning, Dr Coppélius attempts to recreate his lost daughter through a life-like doll.”
Queensland Ballet’s Artistic Director Li Cunxin said, “Greg Horsman will bring his flair for choreographing classical-style ballet to this traditional work, and his distinctly Australian scenario is perfectly suited to the delightful story.
“This is a ballet that the whole family can enjoy. The dancing is beautiful and elegant, and Delibes’ score is stunning. Audiences will leave the theatre feeling uplifted and entertained by an evening of beautiful dancing and music.”
Horsman said, “Queensland Ballet’s dancers have been brilliant. They have shown great patience, good humour and initiative in realising this production. I’m very grateful to Li and Queensland Ballet for this fantastic opportunity to create my first full-length ballet back home in Australia.”
Also joining Queensland Ballet for the season of Coppélia is Qi Huan, Principal at Royal New Zealand Ballet (RNZB). Qi will perform the role of Franz in selected performances and has previously worked with Choreographer Greg Horsman. His most notable performance was in Greg’s Verdi Variations where Qi gave an outstanding performance.
Narrative ballets generally have several ‘character’ roles, which require excellent stage technique and comedic skills.
After his wonderful performance as an Ugly Stepsister in Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella last year, audiences can look forward to seeing Associate Teacher Paul Boyd creating his newest Coppélius. Paul is well-acquainted with the role, having performed it several times during his lengthy career.
Audiences should also watch out for Guest Artists Christian Tátchev, Queensland Ballet’s Director of Training and Ballet Mistress Janette Mulligan, as Mr and Mrs Hoffmann, the parents of Swanilda.
Horsman engaged a talented creative team to deliver his vision. Exquisite new sets and costumes have been designed especially for this production by Queensland Ballet’s Resident Designer Noelene Hill and Melbourne-based Set Designer Hugh Colman. Lighting Designer Jon Buswell’s designs will bring the beautiful costumes and set to life.
Delibes’ beautiful score will be performed by the Camarata of St. John’s, under the baton of Queensland Ballet’s Music Director and Principal Conductor Andrew Mogrelia.
Tickets are selling fast to this enchanting family ballet, so get in quickly to see Coppéliafrom 24 April – 10 May at the Playhouse, QPAC.