When something so rare comes to town, you must take advantage of it.
This month, that rarity is George Balanchine’s “Coppelia.” Boston Ballet is the first U.S. company other than the choreographer’s own New York City Ballet (and only the third internationally) to perform the 1974 version.
“Maybe when other companies or directors think of Balanchine, they automatically think of his neo-classic works … and not full-lengths. He didn’t do many and unless you’ve seen it, you may not know about it,” says former NYCB principal Judith Fugate.
Now, working for the Balanchine Trust, Fugate is responsible for the massive task of staging the comedic full-length ballet for Artistic Director Mikko Nissenen’s dancers.
“I think BB is a great fit because the dancers are familiar with the Balanchine’s style but are also experienced with story ballets and acting, so they can meld the two together easily,” she says.
‘Coppelia’
Through April 18
The Opera House
539 Washington St. Boston
MBTA: Green Line to Boylston
$25-$140, 617-695-6955
