3. It doesn’t take a music buff to notice the composers’ similar musical styles. Both scores were written during the late-19th century: Coppélia’s by Léo Delibes, and The Nutcracker’s by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Before this time, composers rarely wrote music specifically for ballets. Delibes and Tchaikovsky paved the way, composing the first major ballet scores. Tchaikovsky, the younger of the two composers, was heavily influenced by Delibes’ work, which becomes apparent when you listen to these scores. You might notice that they both feel light and elegant, with hummable melodies throughout.
4. You’re in for some of the most exciting and demanding choreography in history. Classical ballets like these typically showcase impressive technique, featuring difficult pointe work, complicated sequences, and remarkable leaps and turns. The final acts of Coppélia and The Nutcracker include spectacular celebrations featuring numerous variations. The variations grow increasingly grand, culminating in a pas de deux from two of the main characters. These whirlwind endings highlight the immense talent onstage and provide a special treat for audiences before the curtains close.
We’re willing to bet that if you love one of these ballets, you’ll also love the other. Fans of THE NUTCRACKER will find its lighthearted, romantic counterpart in COPPÉLIA, a laugh-out-loud ballet filled with loveable characters and just a hint of mischief. And for fans of the Balanchine classic, you won’t want to miss this season’s The Nutcracker. The holiday tradition takes the magic of Coppélia up a notch, expanding audiences’ imaginations with its colorful characters and iconic score.
