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| Famous Ballet Performances on DVD Video Learn sports, exercise and fitness workouts, dancing with DVD instruction videos |
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THE SWAN LAKE STORY:A Dance Fantasy ~ The State Ballet of Oregon (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video One of the most popular ballets of all time, Swan Lake is the romantic story of a young maiden who is transformed into a swan after being cursed by an evil sorcerer; a curse which can only be broken by a pledge of eternal love. In this charming adaptation, made especially for children, Tchaikovsky's ballet is vividly recreated into an enticing introduction to the world of dance. Sitting by the fireside as snow falls outside, a grandfather sparks his granddaughter's imagination with this magical fairytale. His narration is illustrated by an impressive performance from the Oregan State Ballet, dancing in the breathtaking outdoors scenery of the Pacific Northwest. Lit naturally by the sun and moon, Mother Nature creates an enchanting stage for this beautiful production that is sure to capture the imagination of any child. Music performed by The London Philharmonic Orchestra. ++++ THE SWAN LAKE STORY:A Dance Fantasy ~ The State Ballet of Oregon (DVD - 2007) |
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Diaghilev, Cocteau - Picasso and Dance / Paris Opera Ballet ~ Eric Quilleré, Fabrice Bourgeois, Nathalie Riqué, and Elisabeth Maurin (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Between 1917 and 1962, Picasso was involved in creating the designs for nine ballets including Parade, Pulcinella and L'Après-midi d'un Faune, in collaboration with such artists as Jean Cocteau, Erik Satie, Igor Stravinsky, Claude Debussy, Léonide Massine and Vaslav Nijinsky. Le Train Bleu dates from 1924 and Le Tricorne from 1919. These two historic ballets, created originally by Sergei Diaghilev, have been revived by the Paris Opera Ballet. Le Train Bleu (The Blue Train): Scenario by Jean Cocteau, Music by Darius Milhaud. Perlouse: Élisabeth Maurin, The Handsome Youth: Nicholas Le Riche, The Tennis Champion: Clotilde Vayer, The Golfer: Laurent Quéval. Le Train Bleu is an operetta dansé of a chic and flippant society. Jean Cocteau, who wrote the scenario, mockingly celebrates the cult of open air life, fine bodies and sport. The dances are inspired by golf, tennis, swimming and acrobatics. Le Tricorne (The Three-Cornered Hat): Libretto by Gregorio Martinez Sierra, Music by Manuel De Falla, Choreography by Léonide Massine, Stage Curtain, Sets & Costumes by Pablo Picasso. The Miller: Kader Belarbi, The Miller’s Wife: Françoise Legrée, Magistrate: Fabrice Bourgeois. Le Tricorne is Spanish from start to finish. Picasso, a native of Andalusia, created sets, costumes, and a stage curtain, which evokes the atmosphere of the ballet by means of a typically Spanish scene. The story, told with humour and warmth, is of a miller's wife, her jealous husband and a senile magistrate by whom she is pursued. An accompanying documentary, The Story of a Marriage, traces the story of Picasso's involvement with designs for ballet. Orchestre Des Concerts Lamoureux, Conducted By David Coleman. Special Feature: Directed by Yvon Gerault, The Story Of A Marriage, A film by Didier Baussy-Oulianoff, produced and narrated by Robin Scott. With rare photographs and archive footage, this documentary traces the story of Picasso’s collaboration with, among others, Diaghilev, Cocteau and Massine, and of his designs for the ballet, from 1917 to 1924, inspired by his Russian wife, Olga Koklova. Program language English, with subtitles in English / French / German / Italian / Portuguese / Spanish / Japanese. ++++ Diaghilev, Cocteau - Picasso and Dance / Paris Opera Ballet ~ Eric Quilleré, Fabrice Bourgeois, Nathalie Riqué, and Elisabeth Maurin (DVD - 2005) |
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Dancer's Dream: The Great Ballets of Rudolf Nureyev - Sleeping Beauty ~ Elisabeth Platel, Manuel Legris, and Clotilde Vayer (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video In this documentary it is Patricia Ruanne (former ballerina with the Royal Ballet) who is the one coaching the principal dancers (in the La Bayadere documentary it was Ghislaine Thesmar). Her coaching is amazingly patient and professional, and a great deal of time is spent on this. Many seamless cuts are made between actual performance, dress rehearsal, and classroom rehearsal, and this helps keep it lively(this is done in all their documentaries in this series). Finally, the costumes, the colors, the scenary(the set designer, Ezio Frigerio, is also interviewed), the video quality, and the sound are all first class! ++++ Dancer's Dream: The Great Ballets of Rudolf Nureyev - Sleeping Beauty ~ Elisabeth Platel, Manuel Legris, and Clotilde Vayer (DVD - 2004) |
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Prokofiev - Ivan the Terrible, The Classic Motion Picture with The Bolshoi Ballet / Natalia Bessmertnova, Yuri Grigorovich (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Yuri Grigorovich has choreographed Sergei Prokofiev s haunting score to Sergei Einstein s film IVAN THE TERRIBLE. A visually dazzling, completely original work, this is a balettic rendering of the story of murder and intrigue at the court of the Tsar known as Ivan the Terrible. During the Bolshoi Ballet s visits to America, this ballet was one of the most enthusiastically received productions and here it is rendered the full cinematic treatment. Starring Yuri Vladimirov, Natalia Bessmertnova and Boris Akimov (the original cast), and featuring the orchestra and corps de ballet of the Bolshoi Theatre, this is an outstanding example of dance on film. ++++ Prokofiev - Ivan the Terrible, The Classic Motion Picture with The Bolshoi Ballet / Natalia Bessmertnova, Yuri Grigorovich (DVD - 2007) |
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Johann Strauss: Aschenbrödel (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video You might not realize it by looking at the cover of this DVD(that scene is from a dream sequence) but this ballet has some of the most beautiful costumes and scenery you will ever see in any ballet. The costumes and sets were designed by the famous fashion designer, Christian Lacroix. This is quite appropriate, since this version of the Cinderella ballet takes place in the world of fashion, a shift in the story from the one used by Prokofiev(in case this was not clear, this is not the Prokofiev version, but a version written by Johann Strauss,II at the end of the nineteenth century). Here the stepmother runs a fashion studio(where the ballet begins) and they are getting ready to attend a ball held by the manager of a high fashion department store. We still have the two annoying daughters who also work in the studio, along with Grete(Cinderella's name in this version). Grete has two pet doves that advise her, played by hand puppets. The figure of the Fairy Godmother is actually represented by Johann Srauss,Jr.(there is actually a historical reason for this--Strauss was unable to attend the first performance of this ballet, so they put him in it in this revival! They needed this character anyway). The prince character is represented by the main dress designer for the department store. The final act represents a fashion show that takes place in the department store. The choreography by Renato Zanella is very beautiful and classical. It is very well danced by all from the Vienna State Opera Ballet. The lighting is very beautiful and crisp, highlighting the wonderful colors of the costumes and sets. The music is also movingly performed and the sound, as well as the image on this DVD are perfect. An informative booklet is also included. This is highly recommended for all lovers of classical and modern ballet, both adults and children(there are no situations inappropriate for children, and they should love the bright colors and dancing). ++++ Johann Strauss: Aschenbrödel (DVD - 2007) |
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Tchaikovsky - Sleeping Beauty / De Ligniere, Gouda, Cullberg Ballet (Mats Ek) ~ Vanessa de Lignière, Gamal Gouda, Gunilla Hammar, and George Elkin (DVD - 2001) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video The great Swedish choreographer Mats Ek is one of Europe's most creative and groundbreaking dance-makers. He has been at the forefront of modern dance for over 30 years and his revelatory interpretations of classical ballets have paved the way for a new generation of choreographers. Sleeping Beauty is Ek's latest reworking of one of the classics of ballet repertoire. Told in down-to-earth terms, a rebellious teenager, Aurora, seeks to free herself from her uncomprehending parents and a world of emptiness and surface glitter. 106 minutes. ++++ Tchaikovsky - Sleeping Beauty / De Ligniere, Gouda, Cullberg Ballet (Mats Ek) ~ Vanessa de Lignière, Gamal Gouda, Gunilla Hammar, and George Elkin (DVD - 2001) |
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Herold - La Fille Mal Gardee / Collier, Coleman, Shaw, Grant, Ashton, Royal Ballet ~ Frederick Ashton, Lesley Collier, and Michael Coleman (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Frederick Ashton's delightful ballet has proved irresistible to audiences of all ages and The Royal Ballet's production has immediate appeal for newcomers to ballet as well as for those who return time and again to enjoy its lyrical comedy.. It is a ballet set in the English countryside, telling how Lise manages to win the hand of the man she loves - the young farmer, Colas - despite her mother's determination to marry her off to the dim-witted son of a wealthy vineyard owner. This is one of the great masterpieces of The Royal Ballet's repertory, created by Frederick Ashton, set amid the witty designs of Osbert Lancaster, with Hérold's delightful melodies to inspire the performances by some of the Company's leading artists. Lesley Collier "has the high spirits, the sense of fun, the impeccable technique, and at the end a glowing radiance. A glowing performance." THE GUARDIAN "An acknowledged masterpiece, lovingly cherished and superbly danced by The Royal Ballet." SUNDAY TELEGRAPH "Lesley Collier is a natural Lise, brimming with sunlight and technical dash…The ballet will surely charm viewers out of their armchairs once again." ++++ Herold - La Fille Mal Gardee / Collier, Coleman, Shaw, Grant, Ashton, Royal Ballet ~ Frederick Ashton, Lesley Collier, and Michael Coleman (DVD - 2005) |
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Prokofiev - Romeo and Juliet / Galina Ulanova, Yuri Zhandov, Gennady Rozhdestvensky, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Galina Ulanova, Yuri Zhdanov, I. Olenina, and Aleksandr Radunsky (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video This title was created in 1954. It's not a stage performance, but rather a ballet-film. The scenery is unbeatable, as far as ballet titles go. But, I don't want to spend too much time on that aspect, because I don't want to take away from the dancing. The fact that this tape is still in demand after almost fifty years is quite a compliment to the performers. ++++ Prokofiev - Romeo and Juliet / Galina Ulanova, Yuri Zhandov, Gennady Rozhdestvensky, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Galina Ulanova, Yuri Zhdanov, I. Olenina, and Aleksandr Radunsky (DVD - 2003) |
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Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake ~ Paris Opera Ballet, Agnes Letestu, Jose Martinez, and Karl Paquette (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake ~ Paris Opera Ballet, Agnes Letestu, Jose Martinez, and Karl Paquette (DVD - 2007) ++++ Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake ~ Paris Opera Ballet, Agnes Letestu, Jose Martinez, and Karl Paquette (DVD - 2007) |
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Jean-Christophe Maillot - Miniatures / Ballet de Monte Carlo ~ Cera Lazkano (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Choreographer Jean-Christopher Maillot, Film Director Yann Coatsaliou, Costumes and Sets Dominique Drillot, Philippe Favier, Philippe Guillotel, Ange Leccia, Ernest Pignon-Ernest, Alain Pierimarchi. ++++ Jean-Christophe Maillot - Miniatures / Ballet de Monte Carlo ~ Cera Lazkano (DVD - 2006) |
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Hans Van Manen: Six Choreographies 75th Anniversary (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Hans Van Manen: Six Choreographies 75th Anniversary (DVD - 2007) ++++ Hans Van Manen: Six Choreographies 75th Anniversary (DVD - 2007) |
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The Little Humpbacked Horse / Maya Plisetskaya, Vladimir Vasiliev, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Plisetskaya, Vasiliev, and Bolshoi Ballet (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video This ballet-film is of the Russian folk story of the little humpbacked horse. It features the Bolshoi Ballet, starring two dancing legends: Maya Plisetskaya and Vladimir Vasiliev. The promotional copy describes it as "a magical tour through the land of flying horses, dancing fish, and tumbling clowns...." This is primarily a ballet, although there have been some animation and other elements added to enhance the film. ++++ The Little Humpbacked Horse / Maya Plisetskaya, Vladimir Vasiliev, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Plisetskaya, Vasiliev, and Bolshoi Ballet (DVD - 2004) |
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Verdi- La Traviata Ballet ~ Moscow Classikal Ballet, Vera Timashova, and Alexander Gorbatsevich (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Verdi- La Traviata Ballet ~ Moscow Classikal Ballet, Vera Timashova, and Alexander Gorbatsevich (DVD - 2007) ++++ Verdi- La Traviata Ballet ~ Moscow Classikal Ballet, Vera Timashova, and Alexander Gorbatsevich (DVD - 2007) |
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Ravel - L'Enfant et les Sortilèges / Netherlands Dance Theater (Jiri Kylian) ~ Netherlands Dance Theater, Jiri Kylian, and Maurice Ravel (DVD - 2001) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Colette, the author of Gigi, penned the story of L'enfant et les sortiléges, which is related here in an introduction by the choreographer Jiri Kylian with charm and a nod back at his own childhood pranks. Viewers coming to this Netherlands Dance Theatre version of the opera for the first time may be surprised that Ravel composed the boy's role for a girl, and a rather buxom one in this instance. The somewhat gloomy, heavily embroidered production misses no opportunity in bringing to life the toys in the boy's room or the animals in the garden that turn on him in retribution. In conclusion, as an act of compassion of binding the paw of an injured squirrel, the boy and the animal kingdom are reconciled in music of a truly sublime nature. Lorin Maazel conducts Ravel's sophisticated and witty score of translucent vocal lines with the affection for which he has long been renowned. ++++ Ravel - L'Enfant et les Sortilèges / Netherlands Dance Theater (Jiri Kylian) ~ Netherlands Dance Theater, Jiri Kylian, and Maurice Ravel (DVD - 2001) |
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Martha Graham - An American Original in Performance ~ Robert Cohan, Martha Graham, Bertram Ross, and Paul Taylor (DVD - 2002) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video A true pioneer in the world of dance, Martha Graham became an American legend. She was a fearless explorer and a passionate artist, and she exemplified the American spirit in it's truest form. The program is in three parts. In a Dancer's World, Miss Graham and her company demonstrate the challenge and beauty of expression through movement. Developed during her European and Oriental tours, the format of the film - "exercises de style," as the French call it - takes us into her dressing room, the studio, and the spirit of dance itself. Directed and filmed by Peter Glushanok. (Filmed in 1957) Night Journey is Martha Graham's retelling of the legend of Oedipus, danced by Miss Graham as Jocasta, Paul Taylor as Tiresais, and Bertram Ross as Oedipus. This work has a score by William Schumann and set design by Isamu Noguchi, the internationally renowned sculptor and designer. "This film contains the essence of Graham and is among the two or three successful dance films ever made" (Clive Barnes). Directed by Alexander Hammid. (Filmed in 1961) Appalachian Spring is an American folk tale of a young pioneer, his bride, and a wandering revivalist preacher with a band of followers. The dance tells of the couple's wedding, the building of their home, the preacher's dire sermon, and the woman's gentle blessing as the couple begins a life in the wilderness. The Pulitzer Prize-winning score was composed by Aaron Copeland, and the sets were designed by Isamu Noguchi. Directed and photographed by Peter Glushanok. ++++ Martha Graham - An American Original in Performance ~ Robert Cohan, Martha Graham, Bertram Ross, and Paul Taylor (DVD - 2002) |
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Tchaikovsky - The Nutcracker (1989) / Natalya Arkhipova, Irek Mukhamedov, Yuri Vetrov, Andrei Sitnikov, Ilze Liepa, Alexander Kopilov, Bolshoi ~ Irek Mukhamedov, Natalya Arkhipova, Yuri Vetrov, and Alexander Kopilov (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Tchaikovsky - The Nutcracker (1989) / Natalya Arkhipova, Irek Mukhamedov, Yuri Vetrov, Andrei Sitnikov, Ilze Liepa, Alexander Kopilov, Bolshoi ~ Irek Mukhamedov, Natalya Arkhipova, Yuri Vetrov, and Alexander Kopilov (DVD - 2005) ++++ Tchaikovsky - The Nutcracker (1989) / Natalya Arkhipova, Irek Mukhamedov, Yuri Vetrov, Andrei Sitnikov, Ilze Liepa, Alexander Kopilov, Bolshoi ~ Irek Mukhamedov, Natalya Arkhipova, Yuri Vetrov, and Alexander Kopilov (DVD - 2005) |
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Cinderella Ballet ~ Hannelore Bey, Roland Gawlick, and The Berlin Comic Opera Ballet (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video The well known fairy tale of Cinderella, based on the story of 17th century poet, Charles Perrault, has been a ballet for over 150 years. Its enormous success, however, came only after Sir Frederick Ashton, inspired by the wistful and imaginative Prokofiev score (written 1945), created Britain's first full-length ballet. Together with Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet, the Cinderella Ballet has now become part of dance heritage. The world-acclaimed Berlin Comic Opera Ballet has a history spanning 230 years. Adapting classical Russian technique, they have always felt a responsibility to make ballet accessible to the young, staging special performances with new choreographers and fresh repertory as an introduction to the art of dance. ++++ Cinderella Ballet ~ Hannelore Bey, Roland Gawlick, and The Berlin Comic Opera Ballet (DVD - 2003) |
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Prokofiev - Cinderella / Lyon National Opera Ballet / Orchestra ~ Jayne Plaisted, et al. (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video A Ballet By Maguy Marin. Music by Sergei Prokofiev. Lyon National Opera Ballet, Lyon National Opera Orchestra. Conductor: Yakov Kreisberg. Dancers: Francoise Jouillie, Dominique Laine, Jayne Plaisted. Maguy Marin's highly original and magical version of the Cinderella story, as conceived for and performed by the Lyon National Opera Ballet, was an unparalleled success throughout its world tour. Anna Kisselgoff of the New York Times said that Marin's "vision reaches back into the universals of everyone's childhood - the hurts and joys resonate here with touching depth." The characters in her beautifully child-like version of the ballet are live dolls, with real human feelings projected upon them in the way children identify with their real playthings. The story unfolds within a doll's house set - The Fairy Godmother resembles a robot, Cinderella goes to the ball in a toy car and the Prince goes in search of his new love on a rocking horse..." ++++ Prokofiev - Cinderella / Lyon National Opera Ballet / Orchestra ~ Jayne Plaisted, et al. (DVD - 2005) |
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Tchaikovsky - The Sleeping Beauty / Semizorova, Fadeyechev, Speranskaya, Kopilov, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Nina Semizorova, Nina Speranskaya, Aleksei Fadeyechev, and Aleksandr Kopilov (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video The Bolshoi dances Tchaikovsky's second and grandest ballet in the traditional staging completed in 1973 by then director Yuri Grigorovich, after Marius Petipa and with sets by Simon Virsaladze. At the time Grigorovich's staging was much closer to the original Petipa than the Kirov's own production (available on DVD with Kolpakova/Berezhnoi or Lezhnina/Ruzimatov). This production is still performed by the Bolshoi today. ++++ Tchaikovsky - The Sleeping Beauty / Semizorova, Fadeyechev, Speranskaya, Kopilov, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Nina Semizorova, Nina Speranskaya, Aleksei Fadeyechev, and Aleksandr Kopilov (DVD - 2005) |
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Perrault - La Belle / Jean-Christophe Maillot, Ballet de Monte Carlo ~ Tchaikovsky (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Music By Pyotr Tchaikovsky; Choreographer Jean-Christopher Maillot. Music Pieces: The Sleeping Beauty, performed by the St. Petersburg Kirov Orchestra conducted by Valery Gergiev. Romeo and Juliet, performed by the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Claudio Abbado. Nijinsky Award for the Best Choreographic Production 2001 Danza & Danza Prize for the Best Show 2002, awarded by the Italian critics ++++ Perrault - La Belle / Jean-Christophe Maillot, Ballet de Monte Carlo ~ Tchaikovsky (DVD - 2006) |
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Grand Pas in the White Night ~ Ballet of the Xxth Century, Bejart, and Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Grand Pas in the White Night ~ Ballet of the Xxth Century, Bejart, and Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2005) ++++ Grand Pas in the White Night ~ Ballet of the Xxth Century, Bejart, and Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2005) |
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From a Classical Position / Just Dancing Around - William Forsyth ~ William Forsythe (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video William Forsythe, acknowledged as one of the greatest choreographic talents of our time, and his long-time collaborator Dana Caspersen, also of the Frankfurt Ballet, perform a duet conceived especially for the camera. From a Classical Position constitutes a one-off experience of Forsythe and Caspersen’s work, giving dance lovers a unique vision of their art as choreographers, dancers and now film-makers. The piece is performed to an original score by Thomas Willems, a composition for a single piano, which like the dance, is at once naked in its simplicity and at times spell-binding in its complex intensity. To this sometimes-music and sometimes-silence, Caspersen and Forsythe dance a duet of sublime passion and sophistication, a love story without sentimentality. ++++ From a Classical Position / Just Dancing Around - William Forsyth ~ William Forsythe (DVD - 2007) |
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Coppelia ~ Delibes, Benjamin, Acosta, and Heydon (DVD - 2001) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Coppelia, a mechanical doll made by the toy-maker Dr. Coppelius, is so life-like that some believe she is his daughter. The mistake leads to intrigue and jealousy in love. This 19th century classic, in an enchanting production by Royal Ballet choreographer Dame Ninette de Valoise, with original designs by Sir Osbert Lancaster, was broadcast live by BBC television in February 2000. With Leanne Benjamin, Carlos Acosta, Luke Heydon, and Nicolae Moldaveano. ++++ Coppelia ~ Delibes, Benjamin, Acosta, and Heydon (DVD - 2001) |
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A Fantasy Garden Ballet Class II / Rosemary Boross ~ Rosemary Boross (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video By popular demand, Rosemary Boross and Bruce Stephen Foster present the sequel to their hit program, A Fantasy Garden Ballet Class. Pre-schoolers will love dancing with the newest members of the Fantasy Garden including the "Friendly Frogs," "Prancing Petunias", and "Mr. Robin Red Breast." This class contains classic ballet fundamentals being taught by "Emboite Ants" and "Leaping Lady Bugs." Also included is continued work on basic motor skills with "Marching Marigolds" and "Green, Green Galloping Grasshoppers," as well as rhythmic exercises in "The Caterpillar Circle." ++++ A Fantasy Garden Ballet Class II / Rosemary Boross ~ Rosemary Boross (DVD - 2006) |
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Dance Vivaldi: A Contemporary Baroque Ballet ~ Compagnie l'Eventail (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video DANCE VIVALDI : A Contemporary Baroque Ballet is a modern expression of the great tradition of French Baroque Dance. Dissolving the boundaries between past and present, it blends delicate French Baroque technique with the vibrant motion of contemporary dance. The result is a new creation, which brings a rich heritage forward to enhance the modern world. This "contemporary baroque" is an innovative approach. The music in the video production is the renowned Vivaldi's Four Seasons. ++++ Dance Vivaldi: A Contemporary Baroque Ballet ~ Compagnie l'Eventail (DVD - 2006) |
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Natasha - Natalia Makarova (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video The music for Natasha was specially recorded by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Conducted by Barry Wordsworth. Natalia Makarova is universally acknowledged as one of the greatest ballerinas of our age. The content of this television spectacular was chosen to show off the astonishing range and artistry of this uniquely gifted dancer. Some of Makarova’s most acclaimed interpretations, including Natalya Petrovna in Ashton’s A Month in the Country and Juliet in MacMillan’s Romeo and Juliet are featured in this recording alongside dances created especially for her. The dance programme is linked by Makarova, and her charming personality, fascinating life and love of dance shine through to create an intriguing visual biography of one of the greatest female dancers of our time. Extract from On your Toes (Saddler) with Tim Flavin. Romeo and Juliet Bedroom pas de deux (MacMillan) with Anthony Dowell. Carmen Bedroom pas de deux (Petit) with Denys Ganio. Proust Remembered pas de deux (Petit) with Denys Ganio. Begin the Beguine show number (Gennero) with Gary Chryst. Bach Sonata 1st pas de deux (Béjart) with Denys Ganio. Prelude to Les Sylphides (Fokine) solo. Manon Bedroom pas de deux (MacMillan) with Anthony Dowell. Saint-Saëns Dying Swan (Fokine) solo. A Month in the Country pas de deux (Ashton) with Anthony Dowell. Showcase (Maen) with The Norman Maen Dancers. Subtitles: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish ++++ Natasha - Natalia Makarova (DVD - 2007) |
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Gaite Parisienne ~ Leon Danilean, Alexandra Danilova, Frederic Franklin, and Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Alexandra Danilova, Frederic Franklin, Leon Danielian, Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. 1954 film Bonuses: audio commentary by Franklin, optional explanatory subtitles which identify many of the dancers in the ensemble, an interview with Frederic Franklin, a documentary titled "The Saga of Victor Jessen," and a complete list of the ballet productions filmed by Jessen. 87 min., B&W/Color, All Regions. ++++ Gaite Parisienne ~ Leon Danilean, Alexandra Danilova, Frederic Franklin, and Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo (DVD - 2006) |
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Massenet - Manon / Penney, Dowell, Wall, Royal Ballet, Covent Garden ~ Jennifer Penney, et al. (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Manon, brilliantly performed in this 1982 Royal Ballet production, is one of the most popular works by choreographer Kenneth Macmillan, a 20th-century master of narrative ballet. It tells the story (also told, with variations, in a novel and several operas) of Manon Lescaut, a beautiful young woman in 18th-century France who abandoned her true love, the Chevalier Des Grieux, for a rich suitor's furs and jewels, suffered abuse by various men, tried to return to Des Grieux, and died in a penal colony (Louisiana). This stunning performance was produced under Macmillan's direction at Covent Garden, where it usually draws capacity audiences (It is also in the repertoire of leading companies in Paris, New York and, most recently, St. Petersburg.) Besides those two show-business staples, sex and violence, this performance offers lyric grace in the love scenes, pathos in the death scene, remarkable dancing and mime, narrative clarity, and vivid characterization, not only by Jennifer Penney (Manon), Anthony Dowell (Des Grieux), and David Wall (Lescaut), but by the entire expert supporting cast and corps. ++++ Massenet - Manon / Penney, Dowell, Wall, Royal Ballet, Covent Garden ~ Jennifer Penney, et al. (DVD - 2004) |
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Stars of the Russian Ballet / Plisetskaya, Ulanova, Chabukiani, Dudinskaya, Sergeyev, Gusev, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Galina Ulanova, Konstantin Sergeyev, and Natalya Dudinskaya (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Stars of the Russian Ballet / Plisetskaya, Ulanova, Chabukiani, Dudinskaya, Sergeyev, Gusev, Bolshoi Ballet Galina Ulanova, Konstantin Sergeyev, and Natalya Dudinskaya DVD - 2004 ++++ The three selections on this DVD give us a glimpse of the magnificent talent that was hidden behind the Iron Curtain in the early 1950's. Fortunately, the film maker Gebbert Rappaport thought to preserve some of the work of these phenomenal artists. |
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Tchaikovsky - The Sleeping Beauty / Kolpakova, Berezhnoi, Kunakova, Kirov Ballet ~ Irina Kolpakova, et al. (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video The Sleeping Beauty is the grandest of all the surviving 19th-century ballets and the supreme achievement of the imperial Russian ballet. First performed in 1890 at the Maryinsky Theatre in St Petersburg, the ballet has been preserved in continuous performance by the company that created it. The way in which the heirs of the old imperial ballet continue to honor the choreographic genius of Marius Petipa and the glories of Tchaikovsky's score, means that The Sleeping Beauty is ideally to be seen in the interpretation of the Kirov Ballet whose performance in the company's 200th year in 1982 was captured in this presentation. Leading the cast is Irina Kolpakova, recognised as one of the former Soviet Union's greatest ballerinas and justly celebrated throughout the world for the beauty and clarity of her classic dancing in the role of Princess Aurora. With Sergei Berezhoi as Prince Desire and Lubov Kunakova as The Lilac Fairy. ++++ Tchaikovsky - The Sleeping Beauty / Kolpakova, Berezhnoi, Kunakova, Kirov Ballet ~ Irina Kolpakova, et al. (DVD - 2005) |
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Plisetskaya Dances / A Documentary on Maya Plisetskaya ~ Dmitri Begak, Vladimir Vasiliev, and Maris Liepa (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Maya Plisetskaya is one of those ballerinas that I call a "force of nature" in the best sense of the word. Whereas other ballerinas are conventionally pretty in a dainty, heart-shaped-face way, Maya with her piercing eyes and red hair is striking, regal and charismatic. This documentary is a remarkable collection of Plisetskaya in archival footage of her greatest roles. In all the clips, the strength of Plisetskaya's personality is at times overwhelming. Besides the warhorses like Swan Lake and Romeo and Juliet, there are also clips of rarer ballets like Raymonda and The Stone Flower. My favorite clip is Maya Plisetskaya dancing her trademark "Dying Swan." Other pieces allow Maya to show off her remarkable athletic ability (most notably as Kitri, where she achieves the seemingly impossible and kicks the back of her head in grande jetes). But the Dying Swan allows Maya to show off her still-unequalled boneless arms. The way her arms just seem to flutter like wings is something I've seen every ballerina try; no one can quite equal the amazing Maya. In a wonderful interview Maya Plisetskaya demonstrates how she uses her arms to the greatest effect, and watching the prima ballerina casually dressed in a black turtleneck flutter her arms like a bird is one of the best parts of the documentary. There's also interesting footage of Maya in dance class ++++ Plisetskaya Dances / A Documentary on Maya Plisetskaya ~ Dmitri Begak, Vladimir Vasiliev, and Maris Liepa (DVD - 2004) |
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Everything Turns into Dancing ~ St Petersbury Ballet (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video This DVD consists of two Russian ballet movies. The first one is from 1978 and is a little under an hour in duration. It is shot on color film stock, and the picture quality looks like a typical Russian movie from that period, which is not at all bad. Of course, it doesn't look like today's state of the art video; it is a movie classic. The movie consists of several ballet miniatures choreographed just for this movie, performed by the St. Petersburg Ballet. The pieces are quite varied, ranging from Bach, Mozart, Rossini(including some of the music that was adapted for the ballet, "La Fille Mal Gardee"), and others. All the choreography is classical ballet, except one piece which is more modern. In between each piece are scenes of Saint Petersburg and additional choreography of a somewhat comic style by the St. Petersburg Ballet. The other movie is also by The St. Petersburg Ballet and is a complete miniature ballet of Don Juan to the music of Richard Strauss. This piece is from 1987 and is almost 20 minutes long. The image quality is noticeably better, being more recent and appears to be recorded(in color) on video tape rather than film stock. This movie is treated as a bonus on the DVD. The dancing in both of these movies is truly wonderful and exciting. The unusual nature of these movies makes them a real treat for ballet enthusiasts looking for something different. ++++ Everything Turns into Dancing ~ St Petersbury Ballet (DVD - 2007) |
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Degas and the Dance - The Man Behind the Easel ~ Brian Bedford, Frank Langella, and Peter Badger (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video A biography on the Impressionist artist Edgar Degas and the world of the Paris Opera Ballet of his day. The ballet was Degas' favorite subject for painting, especially because he loved to capture movement and motion on canvas, as well as portray the world more realistically. The Impressionists (l870's) were a group of artists from Paris who introduced a new movement in the art world. The more famous Claude Monet painted gorgeous landscapes and the natural world while Degas concentrated on interior scenes with sheer realism. Degas was influenced by Edouard Manet and Gustav Courbet, both who were regarded as Naturalist and Realists. Degas frequented the Opera where he watched ballerinas perform in spectacle-ballets. This "documentary" type of biography dramatizes Degas in his old age, as he works on his ballerina paintings and the scultupre "Little Dance Age 14 years". The scenes of Montmartre, Degas' studio, ballets on stage and shots of the Paris Opera's gilded interior is beautiful to watch. We are transported to Degas'19th century Paris. The research is accurate. It's well done and informative. Any fan of art, of Degas himself and of ballet's history will find this DVD very resourceful. ++++ Degas and the Dance - The Man Behind the Easel ~ Brian Bedford, Frank Langella, and Peter Badger (DVD - 2004) |
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A Midsummer Night's Dream ~ Patricia Barker (III), Paul Gibson (VI), and Seth Belliston (DVD - 2001) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Choreographed by an artistic genius, Shakespeare's comedy of magic and love's delusions set to the music of Felix Mendelssohn is a guaranteed audience pleaser. Pacific Northwest Ballet displays all the vitality, brilliance and versatility of its wonderful dancers in this award-winning production of Balanchine's first original full-length ballet. ++++ A Midsummer Night's Dream ~ Patricia Barker (III), Paul Gibson (VI), and Seth Belliston (DVD - 2001) |
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Coppelia ~ Delibes, Barkoczy, Ehn, and Csarnoy (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Coppelia ~ Delibes, Barkoczy, Ehn, and Csarnoy (DVD - 2007) ++++ Coppelia ~ Delibes, Barkoczy, Ehn, and Csarnoy (DVD - 2007) |
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Massenet - Manon / Sir Kenneth MacMillan, Royal Australian Ballet, Justine Summers ~ Macmillan, Summers, Heathcote, and Smith (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Manon, Music Jules Massenet, The Australian Ballet at The Adelaide Festival Theatre featuring Justine Summers, Steven Heathcote. This highly-rated production of Manon by The Australian Ballet was recorded live at the Adelaide Festival in 1995 and features premier dancers Justine Summers, Steven Heathcote, Nigel Burley, Jonathan Kelly, Lynette Wills and Paul De Masson. In 18th century Paris, Manon, a captivating young woman, falls passionately in love with a penniless student, des Grieux. Manipulated by her avaricious brother, she makes a fatal decision to shun her true love and exploit the pleasures of wealth. Des Grieux, a victim of Manon’s desires and depravity, sacrifices everything to follow her to a tragic end. "A spectacular drama of lust, greed and death… raunchy in subject matter and robust in interpretation. It is also graceful, beautiful and moving, action-packed and highly entertaining." The Telegraph-Mirror. Justine Summers Manon; Steven Heathcote des Grieux; Nigel Burley Lescaut; Jonathan Kelly Monsieur G.M.; Lynette Wills Lescaut’s Mistress; Paul de Masson The Gaoler; Susan Elston Madame; Steven Woodgate Beggar Chief; Lucinda Dunn, Jane Finnie, Narelle Forbes, Helene Shields and Rebecca Yates Courtesans; Adrian Burnett, Andrew Murphy and Stanton Welch Gentlemen. The Australian Ballet, Choreography: Sir Kenneth MacMillan. ++++ Massenet - Manon / Sir Kenneth MacMillan, Royal Australian Ballet, Justine Summers ~ Macmillan, Summers, Heathcote, and Smith (DVD - 2006) |
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Stravinsky - Il Segreto di Pulcinella ~ Movers Ballet, Antonella Balducci, Ruben Amoretti, and Furio Zanasi (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Stravinsky - Il Segreto di Pulcinella ~ Movers Ballet, Antonella Balducci, Ruben Amoretti, and Furio Zanasi (DVD - 2007) ++++ Stravinsky - Il Segreto di Pulcinella ~ Movers Ballet, Antonella Balducci, Ruben Amoretti, and Furio Zanasi (DVD - 2007) |
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Choreography By Balanchine / Tzigane, Andante from Divertimento No 15, The Four Temperaments, Selections from Jewels, Stravinsky Violin Concerto ~ New York City Ballet, George Balanchine, and Suzanne Farrell (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Choreography By Balanchine / Tzigane, Andante from Divertimento No 15, The Four Temperaments, Selections from Jewels, Stravinsky Violin Concerto ~ New York City Ballet, George Balanchine, and Suzanne Farrell (DVD - 2004) ++++ Choreography By Balanchine / Tzigane, Andante from Divertimento No 15, The Four Temperaments, Selections from Jewels, Stravinsky Violin Concerto ~ New York City Ballet, George Balanchine, and Suzanne Farrell (DVD - 2004) |
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Paul Czinner: The Bolshoi Ballet Galina Ulanova, Raissa Struchkova, Nikolai Fadeyechev, and Gennadi Rozhdestvensky (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video The video is broken up into two main parts. The first is a pastiche of smaller ballets, danced by the Bolshoi's rising stars. My own personal favorite is the Walpurgisnacht from Faust, danced by Raisa Struchkova. But the second half of the video is devoted to Galina Ulanova, who was named prima ballerina assoluta of the Bolshoi Ballet. (After she retired, Maya Plisetskaya was given the title.) Ulanova in many ways was an unusual dancer. She was born in St. Petersburg, and was a pupil of the famed teacher Agrippina Vaganova. For the first half of her career she danced at the Mariinsky Theatre. Stalin liked her dancing he essentially forced her to transfer to Moscow. Ulanova created the role of Juliet in Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet. Even in her youth, she was known more for her unique lyrical elegance than technical aplomb. Flashy roles, such as Kitri or Odile, were never in her repertoire. But she was unrivalled in ballets such as Les Sylphides, Romeo and Juliet, and, most famously, Giselle. ++++ Paul Czinner: The Bolshoi Ballet [DVD Video] ~ Galina Ulanova, Raissa Struchkova, Nikolai Fadeyechev, and Gennadi Rozhdestvensky (DVD - 2007) |
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The Houston Ballet (Image / Journey / Ghost Dances) ~ Houston Ballet (DVD - 2002) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Founded in 1968, the Houston Ballet has developed into one of the most highly regarded in America, with an extensive repertoire of both classical and modern dance. The company tours internationally and is particularly noted for the complementary blend of exuberance, fluidity, discipline and technical strength. This special studio recording presents three innovative ballets exploring a range of contemporary themes from the company's repertoire: "Image," with music by Gustav Mahler, "Journey," with music by Palle Mikkelborg, and "Ghostdances," with music by Inti-Illimani. ++++ The Houston Ballet (Image / Journey / Ghost Dances) ~ Houston Ballet (DVD - 2002) |
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Prokofiev - The Stone Flower / Nicolai Dorokhov, Lyudmilla Semenyaka, Nina Semizorova, Yuri Vetrov, Aleksander Kopilov, Bolshoi ~ Lyudmilla Semenyaka, Dorokhov, Semenyaka, and Kopilov (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video The story is basically a mythical love triangle between the mortals (Katerina and Danila) and the supernatural (Mistress of Copper Mountain). The supernatural Mistress at first tears the mortals apart, but in the end she bestows her benevolent powers for a Soviet-approved happy ending. Danila (Nikolai Dorokhov) the artist, is engaged to the lovely Katerina (Lludmilla Semenyaka), but he's drawn to the mysterious, powerful Mistress of Copper Mountain (Nina Semizorova). And then there's a bad guy to stir the pot, Sereyan (Yuri Vetrov). Like a lot of works created during the Soviet era, The Stone Flower is not very subtle. Sereyan isn't just a villain -- he's a villain who proves his villainy by constantly stomping around the stage, leering and sneering and beating his chest. Katerina defends herself against the loathsome Sereyan by wielding a sickle at him. (Imagine how much the Communist government would have loved that!) If I were to describe The Stone Flower in one sentence, it would be, "A longer and cheesier Firebird." ++++ Prokofiev - The Stone Flower / Nicolai Dorokhov, Lyudmilla Semenyaka, Nina Semizorova, Yuri Vetrov, Aleksander Kopilov, Bolshoi ~ Lyudmilla Semenyaka, Dorokhov, Semenyaka, and Kopilov (DVD - 2005) |
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Prokofiev - Cinderella / Fonteyn, Somes, Ashton, MacMillan, Park, Grant, Farron, Fifield, Page, Beriosova, Sadler's Wells Ballet ~ Margot Fonteyn, Kenneth MacMillan, and Frederick Ashton (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Margot Fonteyn, Michael Somes, Frederick Ashton, Kenneth MacMillian, Sadler’s Wells Ballet (Royal Ballet). Choreography by Frederick Ashton. Music by Prokofiev. Conducted by Robert Irving. Broadcast of April 29, 1957. Approx. 90 min. ++++ Prokofiev - Cinderella / Fonteyn, Somes, Ashton, MacMillan, Park, Grant, Farron, Fifield, Page, Beriosova, Sadler's Wells Ballet ~ Margot Fonteyn, Kenneth MacMillan, and Frederick Ashton (DVD - 2004) |
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Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 6 (Pathetique) & Ballet Music from Eugene Onegin - A Naxos Musical Journey ~ Tchaikovsky (DVD - 2001) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video The haunting landscape and landmarks of Russia evoke the eternal melodies of the country's most popular and celebrated composer, Pyotr Iliyich Tchaikovsky. This program floats on Tchaikovsky's famed "Pathetique" symphony and ballet music from his celebrated opera Eugene Onegin. From blossoming botanical gardens to the bold architectural wonders of the Kremlin and Red Square; from the legendary Pushkin Theater to the dramatic site of the Odessa Steps immortalized in Eisenstein's classic film The Battleship Potemkin; from breathtaking views of the Black Sea to the calm of a sleeping city on a winter night; this is the world that inspired the eternal genius of Tchaikovsky. ++++ Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 6 (Pathetique) & Ballet Music from Eugene Onegin - A Naxos Musical Journey ~ Tchaikovsky (DVD - 2001) |
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Swan Lake ~ Kirov Ballet, Leningrad Philharmonic, John Markovsky, and Yelena Yavteyeva (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Swan Lake ~ Kirov Ballet, Leningrad Philharmonic, John Markovsky, and Yelena Yavteyeva (DVD - 2007) ++++ Swan Lake ~ Kirov Ballet, Leningrad Philharmonic, John Markovsky, and Yelena Yavteyeva (DVD - 2007) |
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Deldevez - Minkus: Paquita, Opera National De Paris ~ Deledevez, Minks, L'Opera Nat'l Paris, and Coleman (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video This is a must ballet collection to have. The Ballet Opera captivated the essence of romantic Spain via this ballet suite. It's just a delight and wonderful to watch, specially on big LCD screen. ++++ Deldevez - Minkus: Paquita, Opera National De Paris ~ Deledevez, Minks, L'Opera Nat'l Paris, and Coleman (DVD - 2006) |
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The Tales of Hoffmann - Criterion Collection ~ Moira Shearer, Ludmilla Tchérina, Anne Ayars, and Pamela Brown (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video This a film version of the opera "The Tales of Hoffmann", however it is NOT just a film of a staged performance. 'Michael Powell' & Emeric Pressburger (and the rest of "The Archers") work their usual magic here. The opera dramatises the three great romances in the life of the poet-hero presented in a series of flashbacks. Hoffmann's tales depict the struggle between human love and the artist's dedication to his work. Hoffmann loses each of the women he loves but gains instead poetic inspiration -- the ability to transform painful experiences into art. ++++ The Tales of Hoffmann - Criterion Collection ~ Moira Shearer, Ludmilla Tchérina, Anne Ayars, and Pamela Brown (DVD - 2005) |
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Tchaikovsky - The Nutcracker / Nureyev, Park, Royal Ballet ~ Jillian Gibbs, Rudolf Nureyev, Wayne Sleep, and Merle Park (DVD - 2000) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video This historic 1968 Covent Garden production of Tchaikovsky's ballet masterpiece captures Rudolf Nureyev at the peak of his career. Nureyev's legendary performance makes this the definitive Nutcracker on video. Also features Merle Park as Clara, with Artists of the Royal Ballet, London. Now digitally re-mastered for DVD, this Nutcracker will be the highlight of every holiday season for years to come! ++++ Tchaikovsky - The Nutcracker / Nureyev, Park, Royal Ballet ~ Jillian Gibbs, Rudolf Nureyev, Wayne Sleep, and Merle Park (DVD - 2000) |
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Chopin - Die Kameliendame (Lady of the Camellias) ~ Marcia Haydee, Ivan Liska, Francois Klaus, and Colleen Scott (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video This story is based on an autobiographical novel by Dumas and has been performed under many names: Lady of the Camellias,Armand and Marguerite, and La Traviata, to mention a few. This ballet version was done as a movie back in 1987 by John Neumeier and was previously released on VHS. This DVD transfer by Deutsche Grammophon is fantastic! Both the sound and picture are as good as it gets. The choreography is purely classical and is very complex and ambitious. The dancing is almost nonstop for two solid hours! The pas de deux are some of the most romantic in the repertoire, and many intense solos are included. The quality of the dancing is unbelievable and some of the best the Hamburg Ballet has ever come up with. There are some lighter moments, with delightful comic elements, including some with a cabaret flavor. But the overall feeling is that of 19th century gothic gloom. The sound also includes intentional stage noises, like the flowing of fabric and footsteps and other incidental sounds, which adds to the sense of realism. There is also some creative use of lighting. The music in this version consists entirely of various pieces by Chopin, both solo piano and piano and full orchestra. The music is also flawlessly performed. This is a very moving ballet experience and should appeal to all lovers of classical ballet. ++++ Chopin - Die Kameliendame (Lady of the Camellias) ~ Marcia Haydee, Ivan Liska, Francois Klaus, and Colleen Scott (DVD - 2007) |
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Minkus - Don Quichotte / Dupont, Legris, Bart, Paris Ballet ~ Minkus, Dupont, Legris, and Paris Opera Ballet (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Nureyev's "Don Quichotte" produced for the Paris Opera Ballet is a miracle of dancing and story-telling. Nureyev, we are told, was addicted to old Hollywood musicals and in this ballet it shows. The routines of the corps de ballet are amazing in their complexity and fluidity, clearly owing much to Busby Berkeley.The corps are as much stars of the show as are the etoiles, but the etoiles are magnificent. Jean-Guillaume Bart as Espada the toreador has a swaggering insolence and precision of line equalled only by Marie-Agnes Gillot, the "street dancer" who partners him. However, it is the dancing of Manuel Legris and Aurelie Dupont, Basile and Kitri, that is a wonder to behold. They are perfectly matched and move in total harmony throughout. Legris who, we are told by one critic, "is in the autumn of his career" dances his socks off with a brio and perfection seldom seen anywhere. The total production is so funny it makes one laugh, and the dancing so close to the Platonic Ideal that it makes one want to cry at its beauty. Few productions ever lift the spirits as this one does. We should thank God for the Paris Opera Ballet and its dancers, and for Nureyev who lives on in this production. ++++ Minkus - Don Quichotte / Dupont, Legris, Bart, Paris Ballet ~ Minkus, Dupont, Legris, and Paris Opera Ballet (DVD - 2003) |
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Pas de Deux ~ Patricia McBride, Michal Denard, Ghislaine Thesmar, and Yoko Morishita (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Pas de deuxs from the ballets La Sylphide, Flower Festival at Genzano, Le Corsaire, Blue Bird, Sleeping Beauty and the Tchaikovsky Pas de Deu. Patricia McBride, Michal Denard, Ghislaine Thesmar, Yoko Morishita, others. 1984 ++++ Pas de Deux ~ Patricia McBride, Michal Denard, Ghislaine Thesmar, and Yoko Morishita (DVD - 2005) |
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Character Dance Class ~ Yelena Sherstnieva (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Famous Ballets on DVD Video Elena Sherstnieva She was born in Leningrad and graduated from the Vaganova Ballet Academy. She joined the Mariinsky Theatre in 1975 becoming a soloist in 1985. Her repertoire includes :La Sylphide ( Magde), The Sleeping Beauty ( Carabose Fairy ), The Nutcracker ( Spanish Dance , Eastern Dance, Trepak ), Giselle ( Mirta, Bertha) , Swan Lake ( Spanish Dance, Mazurka ) , La Bayadere ( Hindu Dance), Cinderella (Eastern Princess ) and many others. Today she is part of the staff of the Vaganova Ballet Academy in Saint Petersburg, Russia. This is a graduation class, by Character Teacher Yelena Sherstnieva, soloist of the Mariinsky Theater. It includes exercises at the barre such as Plie in the Mazurka Style, Rond de Jambes par terre in Aragon's Jota style, Adagio for women in Spanish style music, among others. For the center it shows demonstrations of Hungarian, Spanish, Middle Eastern, Russian Dances, Mazurkas from the most famous ballets such as Raymonda, Swan Lake, Flames of Paris et al. Many times in a classical ballet performance, some movements seem not to belong to classical ballet, those are Character movements. We often see positions of the legs en dedans or even a twisted foot which is perfectly allowed in character dance or movements en dedans that end en dehors. ++++ Character Dance Class ~ Yelena Sherstnieva (DVD - 2007) |
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