Eva Kistrup

Next on the Line

August Bournonville:

”La Sylphide”

Interpreted by Nikolaj Hübbe

Royal Danish Ballet

“The Old Stage”

 

October 25 2020

It is unusual for Royal Danish Ballet to present three or bigger casts of most productions. However, it does happen with big blockbusters like “Swan Lake” “The Nutcracker” and “Sleeping Beauty”, otherwise two cast appears to be the norm.

Breaking the rule and putting three casts on “La Sylphide” is a novelty. However, it does signify that RDB has grown to a bigger size where more dancers can handle the most difficult and pivotal roles.  

Actually, Nikolaj Hübbe´s new production of “La Sylphide” has “big” written all about it. Every detail in this production has grown bigger.  The staircase has grown to the high of a palace. The Sylph spends almost as much time swinging high in the air as she performs on the stage floor. She has grown from an 18^th century standard to superwomen. A big challenge for every contender.

Third Time Lucky

 

 

August Bournonville:

”La Sylphide”

Interpreted by Nikolaj Hübbe

Royal Danish Ballet

“The Old Stage”

October 24 2020

 

Last night Nikolaj Hübbe presented his third interpretation of August Bournonville’ s “La Sylphide”.

The audience liked his first production and reviewers for it clear representation of our national treasure.

On the other hand, his second production, now as Artistic Director, Nikolaj Hübbe took “La Sylphide” to where it has never been. The witch Madge had now changed gender and had a relationship with James. There were hardly a tree on stage, so the Sylphs performed on a cold and bare stage. There were strong interpretations by the dancers. However, it was not “La Sylphide” as the Copenhagen audience expected.