Oregon Ballet Theatre - La Sylphide

The world's oldest intact ballet

If you go down to the woods today, you're in for a big surprise - courtesy of the Oregon Ballet Theatre as they stage this gem of the romantic ballet era from August Bournonville. 

A dazzling supernatural love story plays out in the wilds of the Scottish Highlands a young man is bewitched by a glittering specter on the eve of his wedding. Soon the excitement of his nuptials are replaced by an obsession that threatens to consume both him and his heartbroken fiancee. Principal Dancer Xuan Cheng makes her last appearance with the company in this ethereal and heartrending production.

What is the story of La Sylphide?

Whilst dozing in his hall on the eve of his wedding, James, a young and handsome Scotsman attracts the attention of a mysterious Sylph, who quickly falls for him but disappears as he awakes. Distracted James is confronted with his fiance Effie who begs him to ask the witch 'Old Madge' their fortunes. But Madge's predictions do not please him, she foretells his love for the Sylph and he throws her out of the hall, much to Effie's delight.

As the marriage goes ahead, the Sylph once again chooses her chance to interrupt and runs away with the ring, tempting the captivated James into the magical woodland realm towards love, adventure, and death...