Sadler's Wells autumn 2007

BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET'S AUTUMN SEASON AT SADLER'S WELLS

Eagerly Awaited Return of Edward II
Paquita
Major Acquisition of Daphnis and Chloë

Birmingham Royal Ballet returns to Sadler's Wells stage during October with two thrilling dance programmes. Following an absence of nearly ten years, Edward II returns to Birmingham Royal Ballet's repertoire and the Company is also pleased to announce the acquisition of two heritage ballets: Marius Petipa's Paquita and Frederick Ashton's Daphnis and Chloë.

Strictly Dancing 9 &10 October

This intriguing programme explores the three strands of the Company's work: the 19th-century classical tradition, the Company’s unique 20th-century heritage and modern ballet’s creative force.

Paquita

Birmingham Royal Ballet perform the last act of this narrative ballet that tells the story of Paquita, rescued from a massacre as a child by gypsies, who, years later, while travelling and dancing with the gypsy band, returns to her home and is subsequently reunited with her family.

Paquita's divertissements and spectacular climaxes showcase the grandeur and panache of Petipa's work, an indication as to why he is known as 'the father of classical ballet'.

Nine Sinatra Songs

Seven couples tango, waltz, and jive, celebrating the glorious music of Frank Sinatra, the 1950's and the seductive thrill of ballroom dancing. This popular ballroom classic by American choreographer Twyla Tharp has become a BRB favourite.

Daphnis and Chloë

Never before performed in the UK outside of The Royal Ballet, Daphnis and Chloë tells of the love of the young shepherd Daphnis for the beautiful Chloë. Ravel's score to Daphnis and Chloë is generally regarded as his masterpiece.

Edward II 11 – 13 October

Based on Christopher Marlowe's play (1592), Edward II explores the conflict between Edward's personal and public lives: a story of infatuation, jealousy and violence played out against a background of political intrigue and religious fervour.
David Bintley's ballet follows in the great tradition of Royal Ballet choreographers in its exploration through dance of serious historical subjects. Edward II is the King torn apart, unable to reconcile his own desires with the regal duties demanded of a fourteenth century monarch. Medieval England and France are the settings for this violent, passionate, disturbing and bloody ballet.

First seen in Stuttgart in April 1995 to acclaim from critics and audiences alike, this huge production features monumental sets and rich sumptuous costumes, designed by international fashion designer Jasper Conran that portray the realms of Europe, from the pageantry of the French court, to the medieval splendour of fourteenth century England.

Edward II has a specially commissioned score by leading British composer John McCabe. McCabe has many year'’ experience writing for the stage, dating back to his opera for children, The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, composed in 1968.

ENDS

For further press information please contact:
Angela Hughes on 0121 245 3549; E-mail: AngelaHughes@brb.org.uk
Simon Harper on 0121 245 3562; Email: SimonHarper@brb.org.uk

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