Tchaikovsky's The Sleeping Beauty

Making its debut in 1890, Tchaikovsky's version of "Sleeping Beauty" was his first success in the world of ballet. This performance from 1955 was conducted by Robert Irving, with choreography by Petipa. The cast had a daunting task following in the footsteps of various luminaries who previously performed in the ballet, including Rudolf Nureyev, Lucia Chase, George Balanchine, and many others. Fortunately a stellar cast performs wonders with the material, and includes Margot Fonteyn, Frederick Ashton, Michael Somes, Beryl Grey, and many others among the line up. An assured interpretation of Tchaikovsky's work, this is a wonderful way to witness a performance of rare vintage.