Napoli (1841) is one of the most famous ballets by the important Danish choreographer (1805-1879). It is a particularly colorful and cheerful work in which Bournonville was inspired by a trip to Italy. The first and third acts take place in the streets of Naples. The second act was a response to Giselle's French romance, which Bournonville saw in Paris. This contrasting act takes place between water
… nymphs in the Blue Cave and the atmosphere is ominous, mysterious and dangerously sensual. But virtue conquers. The ballet ends with a cheerful tarantella that has captivated the audience since its premiere in 1841. Napoli has been constantly adapted over the years. Especially the second act was constantly changed. In this production almost the entire act received new music from and a modern choreography. Which works wonderfully well because the act takes place in a universe of its own. Furthermore, the setting for recognisability was moved to Naples in the 1950s. (CP)more
