The Winter's Tale

Shakespeare's late-career rumination on the devastating results of jealousy is the source for this new ballet fashioned for the Royal Ballet of Covent Garden by choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, with strong assistance from composer Joby Talbot, and designer Bob Crowley. The action follows the Bard's play closely: Act I depicts Sicilian King Leontes's rage over the misapprehension that his wife, Hermione, has been unfaithful—resulting in her death. Act II shifts to Bohemia, where the couple's surviving daughter, Perdita, has grown up unaware of her lineage, and is in love with a shepherd who is really Prince Florizel in disguise (when Florizel's father discovers their relationship, he forces the pair to flee the realm). Act III returns to Sicily, where Perdita's identity is revealed, Leontes atones for his mistakes, a royal wedding is held, and Hermione returns to life. Talbot and Wheeldon's approach is largely traditional: the music (which is well played under David Briskin) effectively catches the mood of each scene, while the dance moves are expressive in an old-fashioned, elegant style that is exquisitely performed by Edward Watson (Leontes), Lauren Cuthbertson (Hermione), Sarah Lamb (Perdita), Steven McRae (Florizel), and the other principals. Crowley contributes sumptuous sets and colorful costumes, while Daniel Brodie delivers some spectacular rear-stage projections. Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on the Blu-ray release) and LPCM stereo, extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, and a cast gallery. A modern work that balletomanes should find deeply satisfying, this is highly recommended. (F. Swietek)