Coppelia, presented by Dance Wisconsin

By Leslie Szymborski

Directed by Jo Jean Retrum

Dance Wisconsin’s Coppelia production is a full-length ballet adapted from Arthur Saint-Leon’s original ballet. The ballet premiered at the Paris Opera in Paris, France in 1870. Coppelia was crafted during the Romantic era of ballet, and was the first to include folk dances and comedy within a classical ballet.

Our production is set in a small Polish village during the mid 1800’s. Villagers are preparing for a celebration. The ballet features an eccentric toy maker, Dr. Coppelius, and a love triangle between a feisty village girl (Swanhilda), her fiancé (Franz), and Coppelia (a very lifelike doll). One night, Dr. Coppelius discovers Franz snooping inside his toy shop. Dr. Coppelius decides to brew up some magic between Franz and Coppelia. Unknown to them, Swanhilda has also decided to “check out” the toyshop.

This joyous tale includes classical ballet and several character dance pieces. It is a family friendly ballet that patrons of all ages will enjoy. If you’re a fan of Cinderella and Snow White, you’ll fall in love with Coppelia!

Produced by Dance Wisconsin at Mitby Theater, MATC, Madison Area Technical College, Madison

Performances: March 23-24, 2013

Performance Times: 2:00 pm both days

Ticket Prices: $10 - $25. Early Bird Pricing Available

Call 608-246-6100 for reservations or more information.