In what is probably the most daring project in recent memory, Nikolaj Hübbe and Sorella Englund are creating a new version of Bournonville's classic, Napoli. The ballet is set in the 1950s with new sets and a completely new 2nd act set to music by Louise Alenius Boserup.

You can get an idea of the sets from the pictures posted on the RDB website (for viewing ONLY): http://www.kglteater.dk/OplevTeateret/G ... x?pgl=true and at David Amzallag's website: http://blueballet.blog.lemonde.fr/

It looks very interesting and will be sure to bring out the critics and strong emotions. Based on the photos - and not confirmed - the opening cast will be led by Ulrik Birkkjær and Gitte Lindstrom with Tim Matiakis, Jean-Lucien Massot and Amy Watson also featuring.

An article (in Danish) on the production here


Choreography: August Bournonville
Choreography 2. act: Nikolaj Hübbe
Instructors: Sorella Englund og Nikolaj Hübbe
Music: Edvard Helsted, H.S. Paulli, H.C. Lumbye, Louise Alenius Boserup m.fl.
Set and costume design: Maja Ravn
Light design: Mikki Kuntu
Conductor: Graham Bond
Orchestra: Det Kongelige Kapel

A glowing (5/5 stars) review from the Financial Times:


Click here

Not quite such a hit according the hometown critics


Berlingske Tidende (4/6 stars): review

Wern appears to have a bit of an issue with Hübbe including the traditional dances and traditional costumes at the end of Act 3. Yes, it obviously doesn't quite jibe with the 1950s setting, but some things just can't be changed!

Jyllands-Posten (4/6 stars): review

Again, comments on using the traditional costumes/dances in the 3rd act. I have to wonder that if they'd left the dances out or used different costumes whether these same critics would have complained about too many changes etc. etc. ....