Ballet in two acts (1960)

Recounting the triumph of thwarted love thanks to cunning, Frederick Ashton’s virtuoso rendition of Dauberval's 18th Century classic La Fille mal gardée (The Wayward Daughter) is a masterpiece.

Nearly two and a half centuries old, the ballet's lasting popularity is not merely due to the perfect fluidity of the choreography, but also to the irresistible charm of the characters, brought to life with humour and subtlety, and aided by wonderful sets and costumes by cartoonist Sir Osbert Lancaster.

Be it in the farmyard or the cornfield, the hearts of Lise and Colas (étoiles Léonore Baulac and Guillaume Diop) search for – and eventually find – each other, and in the manner of a musical, their delightful story will carry you away with its whimsy and smiles.

This performance was captured live from the historic Palais Garnier, during a sold-out run.

Please note programme change: the casting listed in our printed season guides was incorrect. [updated 21 Mar 24].