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The whole family will delight in the misadventures of the spirited Swanilda, her foolish sweetheart Frantz, and mad inventor Dr. Coppélius in New York City Ballet’s Coppélia. With lively characters, a case of mistaken identity, and a bright orchestral score, the New York Times calls it a “story ballet done to perfection.”

One of the world’s foremost dance companies is back with this charming, comedic masterpiece about an eccentric toymaker and the doll he creates. After noticing Frantz’s infatuation with Dr. Coppélius’ masterwork—a beautiful life-like doll named Coppélia—a jealous Swanilda sneaks into the inventor’s workshop to uncover its secrets. The ensuing mayhem culminates in a magnificent grand finale, as the village celebrates the Festival of Bells. Originally choreographed in the 19th century, this production was restaged by George Balanchine and Alexandra Danilova for its New York City Ballet premiere in 1974.

“To see New York City Ballet in a full-length classical work is special, especially one that also demonstrates the storytelling chops of George Balanchine. It’s a side of Mr. Balanchine and a side of the company we don’t often get a chance to see. I hope everyone will revel in the opportunity to see NYCB’s stars and up-and-coming standouts dig into these characters over three acts of Coppélia, finding moments to appreciate the levity and the delight of this comic story ballet, perfect for the whole family.” 

—Jane Raleigh, Kennedy Center director of dance programming