Coppélia

The girl with the enamel eyes — a comic ballet in three acts, set to Léo Delibes’ sparkling score.

Act I — The Village Square

On a balcony above the square sits Coppélia, the beautiful and mysterious daughter of the eccentric toymaker Dr. Coppélius. She reads all day, never waving back — and Franz, though betrothed to the spirited Swanilda, cannot stop stealing glances at her. Swanilda sees everything. When an ear of wheat refuses to rattle (the old test of a faithful heart), she vows to find out just who this silent rival is.

Act II — The Toyshop

That night Swanilda and her friends slip into Dr. Coppélius’ workshop and discover the truth: Coppélia is no rival at all, but a life-size mechanical doll. When the toymaker returns and catches the girls, Swanilda hides — and takes the doll’s place. What follows is some of ballet’s most beloved comedy, as “Coppélia” springs to life before the astonished doctor’s eyes, dances a Spanish bolero and a Scottish jig, and turns the workshop upside down while a sheepish Franz climbs through the window.

Act III — The Wedding

All is forgiven in a festival of bells. Franz, cured of his infatuation, marries his clever Swanilda, Dr. Coppélius is made whole, and the whole village dances in celebration.

Good to know

• Delibes’ score gave ballet its first great waltz — listen for it moments into Act I.
• A perfect first ballet: comedy, dolls that come to life, and a happy ending.
• Full casting and program details will be announced closer to the performance.