La Fille mal gardée | The Royal Ballet

La Fille mal gardée was choreographed by Frederick Ashton from the 19th century original and became an instant hit for The Royal Ballet. The simple story of Lise, her suitor Colas and Lise’s larger-than-life mother, the Widow Simone, who tries to marry her off to the simpleton son of a rich neighbour, is full of delicious comedy, but also wonderful, characterful choreography. One of the greatest pleasures of Fille is the way in which the steps, though at times devilishly difficult, never get in the way of the natural, easy storytelling. It is the perfect ballet for first-timers of all ages, but also one to which ballet-lovers will return again and again with renewed pleasure at every performance.