Writing
Based on Alexander Pushkin’s dramatic verse novel "Eugen Onegin", the ballet tells the tragic love story of the world-weary aristocrat Onegin and the naïve country girl Tatiana. John Cranko’s Onegin holds a special place in the choreographic repertoire of the second half of the 20th century as one of the few original full-length ballets.
Based on one of Shakespeare’s most famous comedies, this is a virtuosic and irresistibly funny ballet, choreographed by John Cranko to melodies inspired by Scarlatti.
A young country girl, Tatiana, is introduced to a worldly aristocrat by her sister’s fiancé. Onegin instantly becomes Tatiana’s heart’s desire, though, in his eyes, she remains naive and uninteresting. Thus begins the tale that leads to a tragic duel, a royal marriage, and personal redemption. Based on the verse-novel Eugene Onegin by Alexander Pushkin, John Cranko’s majestic and astounding ballet allows the strength and agency of our romantic heroine to shine through.
The Prince of the Pagodas is a ballet created for The Royal Ballet by choreographer John Cranko with music commissioned from Benjamin Britten. Its premiere took place on 1 January 1957 at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London, conducted by Britten