Ballet
Coppélia
Coppélia is one of the funniest and most charming ballets in the classical world. It has a mysterious doll, a nosy village girl, and an inventor who gets fooled by his own creation. The music is so cheerful it is hard not to smile all the way through.
Fast facts
- Composer
- Léo Delibes
- Choreographer
- Arthur Saint-Léon
- Premiere
- 1870, Paris Opera, Paris
- Structure
- Three acts
- Running time
- About 2 hours with intervals
The story
A young woman named Swanilda notices that her sweetheart Franz is fascinated by a beautiful girl reading on a balcony, not realizing the girl is really a life sized doll built by the toymaker Dr. Coppélius. Curious and jealous, Swanilda sneaks into the toymaker's workshop with her friends. When Franz also breaks in, Dr. Coppélius tries to bring his doll to life using Franz's energy. Swanilda disguises herself as the doll, saves Franz, and the two reconcile and celebrate their wedding.
What Coppélia is famous for
- the lifelike doll Coppélia
- Swanilda pretending to be the doll
- Delibes's playful score
- its comic village charm
Companies that perform Coppélia
Coppélia is in the repertoire of companies including New York City Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, Ballet Nacional de Cuba.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coppélia a person?
No. Coppélia is actually a life sized mechanical doll built by the toymaker Dr. Coppélius, which sets off all the confusion and comedy in the story.
Is it a comedy?
Yes. It is one of the lightest and most humorous classical ballets, full of mischief, disguises, and a happy ending.
Is it suitable for children?
It is a great family choice. The story is playful and easy to follow, and the bright music keeps younger viewers engaged.
Who composed Coppélia?
Coppélia was composed by Léo Delibes.
How long is Coppélia?
Coppélia runs about 2 hours with intervals.