Summary

This DVD showcases Frederick Ashton's version widely regarded as the definitive interpretation initially devised for the London Royal Ballet in 1960 and first screened on the BBC over the Christmas period of 1962. This performance featured the cast of the 1960 original, with Nadia Nerina in a role that Ashton created with her in mind. Nerina's "joyous, soaring skill, which is Lise's signature (Financial Times) and David Blair's technical and interpretative genius in the role of Colas are perfectly offset by Stanley Holden's hilarious travesti turn as Widow Simone, and Alexander Grant, who brings pathos and humour to the character of Alain.