Coppelia (Claude Bessy (2002)/ David Coleman)

Léo Delibes (1836-1891), the greatest ballet composer of the second half of the 19th century, was inspired when composing Coppelia by the well-known short-story by E.T.A. Hoffmann, The Sandmann without, however, going into its fantasy, tragedy and cruelty. Together with the librettist Charles Muitten, he created a ballet comedy, which is heavily influenced by East-European folklore. Over the years many arrangements and choreographies have been made of the piece. The version on this DVD is by Pierre Lacotte, the great ballet expert who has received many honours, and Claude Bessy, the long standing director of the ballet School at the Paris opera. Beginning with Swanildas first waltz, Bessy has complete artistic control and entertains with wit, esprit and highest demand on the interpreters, who were brilliant in their vigorous dancing and precision of technique. (bron: TDK)