Rhapsody

Rhapsody was created in 1980 and stands as one of Frederick Ashton’s final works. This ballet is a non-narrative piece that highlights the virtuosity of its dancers, particularly in the male Principal role, which features fluent leaps, turns, and lightness of movement. The counterpart, the ballerina, embodies strength and grace, drawing inspiration from the style of former Royal Ballet Principal Lesley Collier.

The production is set to Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, a score known for its dramatic and lyrical contrasts. The ballet premiered at the Royal Opera House, commemorating the 80th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. This performance not only showcases the ballet's technical demands but also celebrates a significant moment in the history of dance and the legacy of Ashton.