sleeping beauty ballet

Live Full Orchestra

Director Aaron Collins

Swan Lake in Fresno, CA

The original scenario was created by Ivan Vsevolozhsky, based on the fairy tale "La belle au bois dormant" by Charles Perrault. The first choreographer was Marius Petipa: revised choreography and stage direction by Andrei Litvinov, People's Artist of Moldova.

About

The Sleeping Beauty is a ballet in a prologue and three acts, composed by Tchaikovsky in 1889. It is Tchaikovsky's second ballet, and his second-longest work at 160 minutes.

The original scenario was created by Ivan Vsevolozhsky, based on the fairy tale "La belle au bois dormant" by Charles Perrault. The first choreographer was Marius Petipa.

The ballet premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia on January 15, 1890. From that year forward, The Sleeping Beauty has remained one of the most famous ballets of all time.

The story follows the classic fairytale of Princess Aurora, who is cursed by the evil fairy Carabosse to prick her finger on a spindle and die on her 16th birthday. The good fairy, the Lilac Fairy, is able to modify the curse so that instead of dying, Aurora will fall into a deep sleep for 100 years until awakened by the kiss of a prince.

After the prologue introducing the curse, the story follows Aurora growing up, celebrating her 16th birthday, pricking her finger, and falling into the 100-year slumber. In the final act, Prince Desire is led by the Lilac Fairy to Aurora's castle, where he finds her and awakens her with a kiss, breaking the curse. The ballet ends with a grand wedding celebration.

The Sleeping Beauty is known for its technically demanding choreography, lavish sets and costumes, and of course, Tchaikovsky's sweeping, iconic musical score. It remains one of the most beloved and frequently performed classical ballets to this day.

 

  • How long is the duration of the show?

    About two hours and 30 minutes. To find the run the length of a specific show, you are welcome to call the theatre on the day of the show

  • What time do doors open?

    Doors open approximately 60 minutes before the start of the show. Please note, this time may change without notice. Please call the Box Office for additional information.

  • Age category

    The show is family-friendly and suitable for ages 3 and up.

Synopsis

The story opens in the court of King Florestan XIV in the seventeenth century.

Prologue.

In the Royal castle, celebrations are in progress for the christening of the infant Princess Aurora. As the guests arrive, they are shown to their places by the Master of Ceremonies, Catalabutte. The King and the Queen enter and prepare to receive the six fairy godmothers. The fairies arrive with their pages, who dance with the royal maids of honor. The fairies each come forward with their gifts, arranging them around the cradle and accompanying them with promises that the Princess shall grow up beautiful, talented, and kind-hearted. As the Lilac Fairy approaches the cradle, the wicked fairy Carabosse arrives in a carriage drawn by rats. She is furious at not being invited to be a godmother and pronounces a curse on the baby: one day, Aurora will prick her finger on a spindle and fall into an everlasting sleep. Then the Lilac Fairy, who was about to bestow her own gift, intervenes. She does not have the power to overturn Carabosse's curse, but she mitigates it by saying that the princess shall be awoken after a hundred years by the kiss of the young Prince. The enraged Carabosse drives off in her carriage.

Act I. In the gardens of the Royal Castle, visitors are gathered to celebrate Aurora's twentieth birthday. Among the villagers, Catalabutte notices some old women threading spindles, which have been strictly forbidden since the day of Carabosse's curse. He confiscates the spindles and threatens the culprits with death. The King arrives with his Queen, accompanied by four princes, suitors of Princess Aurora. The prince's intercession saves the old woman from death, and the rejoicing resumes. The four princes approach the King and Queen as suitors for Aurora's hand. When Aurora enters, they are presented to her. She dances with the four princes in turn, accepting from each the rose he offers her. First, the maids of honor, then the pages, and finally, Aurora herself dances again. She sees an old woman who offers her a spindle. Delighted with it, she dances, waving it in the air. Suddenly, she pricks her finger. She dances ever faster but abruptly falls to the ground. The old woman reveals herself to be Carabosse, and, threatened by the princes, she vanishes in a cloud of smoke. Then, the Lilac Fairy appears and orders Aurora to be carried into the castle. She must sleep for a hundred years with the whole court. As a mist rises, the people grow still, and trees and bushes swiftly grow to hide the castle completely.

Act II. One hundred years has passed. Young Prince Desiré is out hunting with his retinue, and they pause at a clearing in the forest (Scene 1), where they dance and play games. The Prince remains aloof and uninterested in the girls' attention during the festivities. His tutor, Galifron, leads the dancers to their places for more formal dances. The ladies propose a farandole where the peasants accompanying the hunt may join. The hunt is resumed by all except the Prince, who remains behind, overtaken by a pensive mood. Suddenly, the Lilac Fairy appears before him and recounts the story of Sleeping Beauty, conjuring up a vision of her. The vision of Aurora dances with the Prince and then by herself before finally vanishing. Entranced and overwhelmed by the vision of Aurora, the Prince begs to be led to her. The Lilac Fairy and Prince Desiré travel in her boat through an enchanted wood to the castle, where all is eerily quiet. The fairy guides the Prince to the castle (Scene 2) and Aurora's bedside. He gazes at the Princess, and then, recognizing her as the Sleeping Beauty from his vision, he kisses her. The spell is broken. Aurora awakens and, seeing the Prince of whom she has dreamed, she takes him in her arms. Light floods the castle, the forest vanishes, and the King, Queen, and courtiers awaken.

Act III. Catalabutte leads the nobles and courtiers to greet the King and Queen for the wedding celebrations of Aurora and Desiré. The Silver, Gold, Sapphire, and Diamond Fairies arrive, followed by guest characters from fairy tales: Puss in Boots and the White Cat; Cinderella and Prince Fortuné; the Blue Bird and Princess Florine; Red Riding Hood and the Wolf; Hop My Thumb his brothers and the Ogre. Then Princess Aurora and Prince Desiré dance together. Roman, Persian, Indian, American, and Turkish guests dance the sarabande. All who have taken part in the entertainment parade around the floor. Finally, the Lilac Fairy appears to bless the marriage, and in true fairy-tale tradition, all live happily ever after.

Principal Dancers

Soloists

FAQ

  • CAEI creates visually stunning productions that enchant and captivate audiences by combining timeless scores, impeccable dancing, hand-painted sets, and exquisite hand-crafted costumes. The choice of timeless scores ensures that the music accompanying the ballets resonates with audiences, evoking emotions and enhancing the overall experience. Impeccable dancing is a crucial aspect of CAEI's performances. The company's dancers are undoubtedly skilled and trained to execute classical ballet's intricate and demanding choreography. Their talent and dedication bring the movements to life, conveying the grace, precision, and beauty that are trademarks of the art form. In addition to the dancing, the hand-painted sets contribute to the overall visual splendor of CAE's productions. These carefully crafted backdrops create immersive environments that transport the audience to different worlds, enhancing the storytelling and adding depth to the performances. The exquisite hand-crafted costumes further elevate the productions. These meticulously designed and tailored garments enhance the visual appeal and contribute to the dancers' characterization. The costumes are vital in conveying the narrative and improving the aesthetic experience. Through its attention to detail and commitment to excellence, CAEI brings the magic of classical ballet to life on stage. Its visually stunning productions, combined with the artistry and skill of its dancers, create an enchanting experience for audiences.
  • Classical Arts Entertainment has significantly impacted ballet enthusiasts across the United States and Canada. With over a decade of experience and a rich history of over 20,000 shows, the company is dedicated to excellence, as seen in its meticulous approach to performance. The company features amazing principal dancers such as Maria Lolenko, Alexsandr Litvinov, Ilona Baitler, and Sergey Zdansky, bringing breathtaking moments of classical masterpieces to life.
  • Doors open approximately 60 minutes before the start of the show! Please make a note that this time is subject to change without notice. For any additional information, feel free to give the theater Box Office a call. 📞
  • Why do babies and children need a ticket to a ballet show? Have you ever wondered why babies or children need a ticket to go to a ballet show? Ballet shows are not just for grown-ups. They can also be amazing for our little ones! Here's why babies and children need their own tickets: 1. A special experience: Ballet shows are a treat for the senses! The graceful movements, beautiful music, and stunning costumes make a magical world for both young and old. With their own ticket, babies and children can fully experience the wonder and beauty of the show. 2. Their own seat: Having a ticket means babies and children have their own seats. This ensures they have a comfortable and safe place to watch the show without being disturbed. It also helps the organizers arrange the seats properly. 3. Safety first: Ballet shows have limited space to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment. By requiring tickets for babies and children, event organizers can control the number of little ones in the audience, making it a safe and fun experience for everyone. 4. Supporting the arts: Buying a ticket for a baby or child doesn't just get them into a beautiful show. It also supports the arts. Your help keeps ballet companies, theaters, and artists going, so they can keep making amazing shows for years to come. So, next time you're thinking of going to a ballet show with your little one, don't forget to get them their own ticket! Let's make great memories and encourage a love for the arts in our children from an early age!
  • Classical Arts Entertainment does not have a formal dress code. Patrons are encouraged to dress according to their comfort level and personal style. Some choose to dress smartly, while others prefer a more casual attire.
  • Planning to catch a show at the theatre? Wondering about the bag policy? 🤔 Here's what you need to know! Most theatres have a bag policy in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all patrons. While specific policies may vary, it's generally recommended to bring a small bag or purse that can fit comfortably under your seat. Large backpacks or bulky bags are often not allowed inside the auditorium. Remember, the bag policy aims to enhance your theatre experience and maintain a secure environment for everyone. So, before you head out to enjoy a performance, double-check the theatre's website or contact their box office for the most up-to-date information regarding their bag policy.
  • The use of phones, photography, recording, and electronic devices in the auditorium is not permitted during the performance.
  • Join us for a truly enchanting experience during the theater's intermission! Indulge in a 20-minute break filled with delectable snacks and rejuvenating drinks at our concession stand. Treat your taste buds while basking in the magic of the performance. But that's not all! Please take a moment to explore our merchandise table, where you'll find an array of top-notch branded t-shirts, elegant ballet ornaments, and captivating ballet-themed souvenirs. And here's the cherry on top! Immortalize this unforgettable experience by taking a professional photo with one of our talented ballet dancers. Time flies, so return to your seat promptly for the second act. Don't miss a single moment of this extraordinary performance! See you at the theater!
  • Attention all ballet lovers! Get ready for an unforgettable experience at our upcoming show! We are thrilled to announce that during the one-hour before the show start, during 20 minutes intermission, and immediately after the show, you will have the incredible opportunity to take photos with a talented ballerina! Capture the magic of this moment and create lasting memories with a professional photographer. For just $25 per photo, you will receive a beautifully printed 8 x 10 size photograph. But wait, there's more! As an added benefit, you will also receive a digital link on Google Drive with several photos, allowing you to share these precious moments with your family, loved ones, and friends! Don't miss out on this amazing chance to meet a ballerina up close and personal, and take home a stunning keepsake from the show.
  • We are thrilled to announce that the program for our upcoming performance is now available in PDF format on our website. Simply head over to www.classicalarts.net to find it and get a sneak peek into the mesmerizing world of our show! But wait, there's more! On the day of the performance, we will also have a QR code displayed in the theater lobby. Simply scan the code with your smartphone to instantly access the program. No more worrying about losing or forgetting your physical program. Now, it's easier than ever to stay connected and immerse yourself in the magic of our production. Get ready to be captivated by the enchantment of the stage! Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to enhance your theater experience. See you there!
  • If you are late for the show, our staff will help seat you during a suitable break in the performance. This is to minimize disruption for the audience and performers, allowing you to join the ballet experience smoothly. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the showtime to fully enjoy our unforgettable productions.
  • Souvenirs can be purchased at the Classical Arts Entertainment Gift Shops, which are located in the theater lobby. The shops are open one hour prior to performances, during intermissions, and directly following performances.

You may also like

View the full program

You can see the full performance program and learn about the composer, Artistic Director, dancers, and other interesting facts about the company.

Open PDF