We have a collection of 10 arrangements for Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky - The Sleeping Beauty (ballet), Op.66
What iconic Tchaikovsky ballet features the "Waltz of the Flowers" and a magical fairy tale plot? Learn!
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's "The Sleeping Beauty" is a ballet that holds a significant place in the classical ballet repertoire. Here are some interesting facts about this masterpiece:
Premiere Date: "The Sleeping Beauty" premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia, on January 15, 1890. Marius Petipa, the renowned ballet master, choreographed the original production.
Collaboration with Ivan Vsevolozhsky: Tchaikovsky collaborated closely with Ivan Vsevolozhsky, the director of the Imperial Theatres, in creating the ballet. Vsevolozhsky provided the scenario and ideas for the production.
Influence of Charles Perrault: The ballet is based on Charles Perrault's fairy tale "La Belle au bois dormant" (The Sleeping Beauty), and Tchaikovsky's music captures the enchanting and magical elements of the story.
Duration of the Original Production: The original production of "The Sleeping Beauty" was quite lengthy, with a running time of over four hours. This included a prologue and three acts.
Waltz of the Flowers: One of the most famous parts of the ballet is the "Waltz of the Flowers" from the third act. This piece is widely recognized and celebrated for its lush orchestration and beautiful melodies.
Historical Significance: "The Sleeping Beauty" is considered one of the first classical ballets to be staged as a full-length work. Its success played a crucial role in establishing the tradition of full-length narrative ballets.
Tchaikovsky's Musical Brilliance: Tchaikovsky's score for "The Sleeping Beauty" is praised for its richness, melodic invention, and orchestration. The composer himself considered it one of his finest works for the ballet.
Revival by The Royal Ballet: The ballet experienced a revival in the 20th century when it was restaged by the Sadler's Wells Ballet (now The Royal Ballet) in London in 1939. This production helped cement the ballet's popularity.
"The Sleeping Beauty" remains a beloved and enduring work in the world of ballet, captivating audiences with its enchanting story and Tchaikovsky's exquisite music.