Tchaikovsky, P.: The Sleeping Beauty

Tchaikovsky, P.: The Sleeping Beauty (Royal Ballet, 2006) is a vivid and enchanting ballet film showcasing the majestic talents of the Royal Ballet of Covent Garden. The timeless story of "The Sleeping Beauty," beautifully enhanced by Tchaikovsky's lustrous musical score, is brought to life by the exceptional grace and precision of the internationally celebrated cast.

Directed by Ross MaCgibbon, a well-known British television director, renowned for filming theatre and dance, this production values the elegance of Tchaikovsky's original vision. The film captures all the emotions and aesthetics of a live ballet performance, inducing the audience to become absorbed into the scenic world of fantasy and reality it seeks to portray.

The film opens with a splendid celebration at the royal court following the birth of Princess Aurora, beautifully depicted with a careful attention to the details of the period, from the costumes to the scenery. The royal couple’s joy soon turns to horror when the wicked fairy Carabosse, feeling slighted for not receiving an invitation to the christening, crashes the festivities and curses the baby princess. As per the curse, Princess Aurora will grow up to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into a death-like sleep. The only thing that can break this curse is the kiss of a prince.

What stands out about this film is the harmonious blend of Tchaikovsky's timeless orchestration with the smooth and fluid dance movements of the ballet company. Tchaikovsky's score is played magnificently by the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, led by the capable hands of conductor Valeriy Ovsyanikov. His musical interpretation manages to mirror the ballet's expressive dance scenes accurately and dynamically, which further adds to the narrative drive. The music and dance unite to build upon the elegant storyline, creating a remarkable sensory experience that transcends the simplicity of the tale.

The lead dancers include Alina Cojocaru as Princess Aurora and Federico Bonelli as Prince Florimund. Alina's execution of the technically challenging role of Aurora is flawless, capturing both the innocence of the young princess and the grace and elegance of the woman she becomes. Bonelli, on the other hand, is ideal for the role of the prince, with his powerful leaps, swift pirouettes, and passionate acting. Together, they make a formidable pair, wherein their chemistry is felt in every movement they make, every story they tell without words.

The film's aesthetic is truly grand, with close attention paid to the details of the sets and costumes which are filled with a rich blend of colors. Decorated with gold, silk, and velvet, they capture the opulence of the royal court perfectly. The production team’s choice of vivid colors and dramatic lighting accentuates the tone of each scene, beautifully replicating the atmosphere of a live theatre performance. Similarly, the phenomenal camera work, with its ability to go in for close-ups and zoom out for the ensemble pieces, offers an intimate experience that is not usually possible in a live performance.

Marianela Nuñez’s portrayal of the wicked fairy Carabosse is impressively sinister and it contrasts perfectly with the virtuous fairies, amongst whom Genesia Rosato as the Lilac Fairy stands out. It is she who mitigates Carabosse's curse by ensuring that Aurora will not die but sleep until awakened by a prince's kiss.

The Royal Ballet Corps is equally impressive, providing depth to the character development of their distinguished lead performers while they perfectly perform some of the most challenging dance sequences with an eye-catching synchrony. The ensemble pieces are captivating, enhancing the overall visual presentation of the ballet.

Tchaikovsky, P.: The Sleeping Beauty (Royal Ballet, 2006) is a standout production in the world of ballet adaptations, serving as a testament to the Royal Ballet's commitment to maintaining the tradition and purity of classical ballet. It is a delightful visual and musical treat not only for ballet lovers but also for those who appreciate high-quality theatrical productions. The film encapsulates the beauty and enchantment of the fairy tale, making it a timeless classic that can be appreciated by all, irrespective of age. Emerging from its grandeur and simplicity is a testament to the transformative power of love, as well as the beauty of classic storytelling through dance.