A Passionate romance

NYCB's newest addition to its repertory is the wonderfully romantic and enduring Danish ballet master August Bournonville's La Sylphide. Artistic Director Peter Martins stages his 1985 interpretation that retains all of the original charm and appeal of the world's oldest surviving ballet.

A Sylph - a magical air spirit

Whilst dozing in his hall on the eve of his wedding, James, a young and handsome Scotsman attracts the attention of a mysterious Sylph, who quickly falls for him but disappears as he awakes. Distracted James is confronted with his fiance Effie who begs him ask the witch 'Old Madge' their fortunes.

But Madge's predictions do not please him, she foretells his love for the Sylph and he throws her out of the hall, much to Effie's delight.

As the marriage goes ahead, the Sylph once again chooses her chance to interrupt and runs away with the ring, tempting the captivated James into the magical woodland realm towards love, adventure and tragedy...