Grab your tickets for a breath taking performance of La Fille mal gardee at London's beautiful Royal Opera House
Step into a sun-dappled village where love, laughter and lively mischief take centre stage. Frederick Ashton’s La Fille mal gardée is a joyous celebration of young romance, bursting with wit, warmth and irresistible charm, making it one of the most loved ballets in the classical repertoire and a perfect introduction for all ages.
La Fille mal gardee details:
- Dates: 23rd May - 9th June 2026
- Age: Ages 5+. Children under the age of five are not permitted into our theatres
- Duration: 2hr 15min incl 1 interval
- Venue: Royal Opera House, Bow St, London, UK, WC2E 9DD
About La Fille mal gardee
At the heart of the story is Lise, the spirited daughter of the formidable Widow Simone, who runs a thriving farm. Lise’s heart belongs to the kind-hearted farmer Colas, but her mother has grander plans, plotting to marry her off to Alain, the awkward yet wealthy son of landowner Thomas. Determined to follow her heart, Lise schemes, dodges and dances her way around her mother’s matchmaking ambitions, with delightful consequences.
Ashton’s choreography sparkles with playful humour and inventive storytelling, bringing village life vividly to the stage. Inspired by Jean Dauberval’s original French ballet, this version radiates sunshine, simplicity and affectionate comedy, capturing the rhythms of rural life and the triumph of love over convenience.
With Osbert Lancaster’s colourful, storybook designs, the countryside blooms before your eyes—filled with ribbons, farmyards and festive scenes that echo Ashton’s own vision of an idyllic pastoral world: gentle, luminous and endlessly joyful.
Light-hearted, uplifting and full of heart, La Fille mal gardée is a ballet that leaves audiences smiling long after the final curtain falls. Perfect for families, first-time ballet-goers and seasoned fans.