Set in a lively European village, the ballet follows the spirited Swanilda and her fiancé Franz as they cross paths with the eccentric inventor Dr. Coppélius and his mysterious, life-like doll, Coppélia. When Franz becomes enchanted by the silent figure in Dr. Coppélius’ window, Swanilda grows suspicious and sets out to uncover the truth. Her curiosity leads her inside the inventor’s workshop, where she discovers the secret behind the mysterious doll. Disguising herself as Coppélia, Swanilda turns the situation into a playful lesson for Franz. What follows is a series of comic surprises, dazzling dances, and a joyful celebration of love.

Delibes’ enchanting score is performed live by the Boston Ballet Orchestra and brings the story vividly to life, shifting between playful, clockwork rhythms, lush lyrical melodies, and folk-inspired dances that animate the village scenes. On stage, Boston Ballet’s dancers shine in roles that demand both expressive emotion and precise classical technique, culminating in a radiant wedding celebration filled with vibrant ensemble dancing. Experiencing Coppélia is a delightful way to share laughter, music, and movement—a timeless ballet where storytelling and dance come together in the most joyful way.

Based loosely on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s 1816 tale “Der Sandmann,” Coppélia was originally choreographed by Arthur Saint-Léon and premiered May 25, 1870 at the Théâtre Impérial l’Opéra, in Paris, France, with the Imperial Ballet’s 1884 production as staged by Marius Petipa becoming the most popularized and iterated on. In 1939, The San Francisco Ballet produced the first American version of Coppélia, choreographed by William Christensen. In 1974, George Balanchine choreographed his version of Coppélia for the New York City Ballet, taking the opportunity to incorporate more virtuosic male soloist roles, more pas de deux, and an entirely new third act. Having performed in productions as a child, Balanchine also had a love for featuring young dancers in his ballets, a tradition that is reflected in Coppélia, which includes 24 Boston Ballet School students.

George Balanchine was one of the 20th century’s most prolific choreographers. He created more than 400 works throughout his career and is celebrated widely for his signature neoclassical style that transformed the ballet world. Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Balanchine came to the United States in 1933, established the School of American Ballet and ultimately New York City Ballet, where he was Ballet Master and Principal Choreographer. Balanchine also played a vital role in establishing Boston Ballet, serving as artistic advisor to the Company in the early 1960s.