This masterpiece of Frederick Ashton is inspired by the older French ballet of Jean Dauberval. We are invited to a picturesque countryside similar to Suffolk, a place dear to Ashton’s heart.The sets resemble cartoons, we enjoy folk festivities, dancing hens and a live pony and are drawn into a merry summer atmosphere.Despite its joyful character the work is technically highly demanding, there are difficult pas de deux and solos, expressing the passionate nature of the young lovers.
