Search - Johann Strauss: Aschenbrdel [DVD Video] on DVD

Stunningly Gorgeous Revival Of A Forgotten Classical Ballet!

J. M WILINSKY | teaneck, NJ United States | 03/28/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"You might not realize it by looking at the cover of this DVD(that scene is from a dream sequence) but this ballet has some of the most beautiful costumes and scenery you will ever see in any ballet. The costumes and sets were designed by the famous fashion designer, Christian Lacroix. This is quite appropriate, since this version of the Cinderella ballet takes place in the world of fashion, a shift in the story from the one used by Prokofiev(in case this was not clear, this is not the Prokofiev version, but a version written by Johann Strauss,II at the end of the nineteenth century). Here the stepmother runs a fashion studio(where the ballet begins) and they are getting ready to attend a ball held by the manager of a high fashion department store. We still have the two annoying daughters who also work in the studio, along with Grete(Cinderella's name in this version). Grete has two pet doves that advise her, played by hand puppets. The figure of the Fairy Godmother is actually represented by Johann Srauss,Jr.(there is actually a historical reason for this--Strauss was unable to attend the first performance of this ballet, so they put him in it in this revival! They needed this character anyway). The prince character is represented by the main dress designer for the department store. The final act represents a fashion show that takes place in the department store. The choreography by Renato Zanella is very beautiful and classical. It is very well danced by all from the Vienna State Opera Ballet. The lighting is very beautiful and crisp, highlighting the wonderful colors of the costumes and sets. The music is also movingly performed and the sound, as well as the image on this DVD are perfect. An informative booklet is also included. This is highly recommended for all lovers of classical and modern ballet, both adults and children(there are no situations inappropriate for children, and they should love the bright colors and dancing)."

A sumptuous feast of music and dance!

O. Kwon | Singapore | 05/13/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"As an amateur ballroom dancer (and ballet mania, too), Viennese waltz has always been something special to me, that invokes amorous emotion and childlike joy. This ballet is based on the King of waltz, Johann Strauss II's beautiful pieces, and performed by the very Austrian Vienna State Opera Ballet and Orchestra. The Orchestra's playing is impeccable and so lively that dancers are just on the beat. Eva Petters, as Grete, who is equivalent to Cinderella in other productions, shows crisp and solid dancing and other main soloists and character dancers are pretty enjoyable. Zanella's choreography is witty and not too serious unlike some other contemporaries, which I like a lot. Last but not least, Christian Lacroix's stage design and costumes are awesome, and you can even appreciate catwalks of dancers in his Haute Couture.

This is a really hidden pearl and if you are a ballet lover, you must own it!"

Great enjoyment

A. Lupu | Rochester, MN USA | 05/20/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Just beautiful and easy to enjoy. Beautiful music and exceptional staging, dancing and costumes. A great addition to the various Cinderella based creations, like Prokofiev's ballet, Rossini's opera (La Cenerentola) and obviosuly Disney's movie. A great way to introduce children to various music art forms!"

A delight.

Titus orange | 09/03/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A wonderful DVD. The dancing and sets and costumes are just a pleasure to look at. The video and audio are top notch."