Birmingham Royal Ballet returns to the Hippodrome stage during September and October with two thrilling dance programmes. Edward II returns to Birmingham Royal Ballet's repertoire and the Company is pleased to announce the acquisition of two heritage ballets : Marius Petipa's Paquita and Frederick Ashton's Daphnis and Chloë.
Edward II, 26 – 29 September
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 years' experience writing for the stage, dating back to his opera for children, The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, composed in 1968.
Strictly Dancing, 3 – 6 September
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. -- www.brb.org.uk
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