La Fille mal gardee is a jubilant and joyful celebration
La Fille mal gardee, Birmingham Royal Ballet
Theatre Royal, Plymouth ****
A jubilant and joyful celebration of countryside life, Birmingham Royal Ballet brings a breath of fresh air to the stage of Plymouth this week with La Fille mal gardee.
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Idyllic rural scenes of a simpler pace are brought to life with communities working together on the harvest, maypole dancing and a tale of young love just some of the highlights of this super agreeable piece.
Living on the farm with her widowed mother, young Lise has to take any opportunity she gets to steal a moment with her love Colas - a poor farmer. But when rich Farmer Thomas shows up with his simpleton son Alain, widow Simone has other ideas for her daughter's hand.
The simple story is crafted lovingly with much talent and the character performances by Lachlan Monaghan as the determined Widow Simone and Tom Hazelby as foolish Alain with his beloved umbrella are a glorious treat.
Under the expert directorship of Carlos Acosta, the company is marking 120 years since the birth of La Fille's choreographer Frederick Ashton. Bringing his treasured work back to the stage I know this production will go on to delight many more young dance lovers who get the chance to enjoy it.
Although a dance fan I had never seen this ballet before and this was the first ever ballet for my companion on the evening - it proved a perfect introduction. Split into three acts it avoided any lengthy sections and dishes out plentiful playful humour, precision and expertise from the soloists.
From the rippling ribbon sequences and umbrella exploits to the colourful scything work in the fields it is a visual bounty but the clog dancing of Widow Simone and her entourage merrymaking amongst the picnic revellers was my favourite.
Amusing and perfect for families and youngsters coming along for the first time it is sure to entrance from the moment the hens wake up to the arrival of Oscar the pony on stage.
With its relatable love story and brilliant character roles it is easy to see why it is such a beloved and popular piece and this latest revival will only aid its longevity. Blissfully radiant!