Ballet de l'Opéra National du Capitole de Toulouse at Seville Opera

About the Event

Coppélia Returns

This year marks the 250th birth anniversary of E.T.A. Hoffmann, the ultra‐romantic storyteller and composer who was enthralled by automatons. One of his notable works, 'The Sandman,' serves as the foundation for Coppélia, a staple in dance repertoire with music by Léo Delibes. The production graces the Maestranza, featuring a top‐tier French classical ballet company and reviving the tale of Franz, a village boy, and his fervent yet unattainable love for a doll crafted by Dr. Coppelius.

Renowned in French classical dance, the Ballet de l’Opera National du Capitole de Toulouse entrusted this story to Jean‐Guillaume Bart, a former principal dancer of the Paris Ballet during the 2000s. Since stepping into choreography in 1997, Bart's first major production in 2007 marked the beginning of his esteemed career, establishing him as a standout creator of his time.

Bart approaches this classic not with criticism but with respect and a fresh perspective. His subtle vision updates the original 1870 challenges of Coppélia to match the technical prowess of 21st‐century dancers. Thus, the classic's essence endures, molded for today's audience.

A ballet in three acts with original choreography by Arthur Saint‐Léon, set to the music of Léo Delibes. Libretto by Charles Nuitter, drawn from E.T.A. Hoffmann's 'The Sandman.'