The ‘Other’ Ballet ‘Coppelia’ Lands At The Met, Minus ‘Nutcracker’ Hoopla
Like “The Nutcracker,” the classic ballet “Coppelia” is based on a children’s story by E.T.A. Hoffman, “Der Sandmann.”
There’s no denying, however, that of the two ballets, “Coppelia” is the lesser-known. Perhaps it’s the full name - “Coppelia, The Girl With Enamel Eyes” - or simply the fact it’s not a Christmas-related story. But “Coppelia” has remained a mainstay in the repertory of most ballet companies since its 1870 Paris debut.
It’s a challenging two-act, three-scene dance originally choreographed by Arthur Saint-Leon to the music of Leo Delibres. Most troupes now perform the Marius Petipa 1884 version, which was revised by Enrico Cecchetti.
A local company of student dancers, Dance Theatre Northwest, will stage two full-length performances of “Coppelia” Saturday at The Met.
The main characters of this comic ballet are Swanilda and Franz, who are linked romantically, and Dr. Coppelius, whose passion is creating a doll with a soul. Franz falls in love with the doll Coppelia, who he thinks is alive. Eventually, Franz realizes Coppelia is a doll and returns to Swanilda.
Lead dancers in Saturday’s productions are Eleanor Tripp who will dance Swanilda and Dean Caloca who will dance Franz. Actor Troy Nickerson will portray Dr. Coppelius.
The ballet is the third and final production in the Dance Theatre Northwest series at The Met. The troupe performed “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” in October and “The Toy Self” in December. “Coppelia” is the most ambitious ballet on the series. While it is appropriate for children of all ages, it is an unnarrated production, hence, parents should familiarize small children with the story prior to the performance to avoid the need for explanation during the dancing.
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MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: Dance Theatre Northwest will stage “Coppelia, The Girl With Enamel Eyes,” Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m. at The Met. Tickets are $10, $6 for students, available through G&B Select-a-Seat.