Rhapsody
“Rhapsody”
Synopsis
Rhapsody was created in 1980 and is one of Frederick Ashton’s final works – a virtuoso conclusion to his series of non-narrative ballets. It was created for acclaimed Russian dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov, who requested the Ashton commission and whose personality is at the heart of the work. The male Principal role is characterised by exceptionally fluent leaps, turns and lightness of movement. It is twinned with the strength and grace of the ballerina, a role created on the pure, fleet-footed style of former Royal Ballet Principal Lesley Collier. The ballet is set to Sergei Rachmaninoff’s well-known Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, which moves from stormy passages to calmer interludes. The premiere of Rhapsody was given at the Royal Opera House in honour of Ashton’s close friend Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, on the occasion of her 80th birthday.
Top Cast
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Release History & Theatrical Window
January 26, 2016
Physical Home Media
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- —
- Original Title
- Rhapsody
- Country of Origin
- United Kingdom
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 33m
- Production Studios
- Royal Opera House
Age Classification & Content Advisories
Official viewer rating standards and content warnings across international classification boards.
International Certification Matrix
Universal — Suitable for all audiences.
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Rhapsody.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Rhapsody
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Rhapsody about?
Rhapsody was created in 1980 and is one of Frederick Ashton’s final works – a virtuoso conclusion to his series of non-narrative ballets. It was created for acclaimed Russian dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov, who requested the Ashton commission and whose personality is at the heart of the work. The male Principal role is characterised by exceptionally fluent leaps, turns and lightness of movement. It is twinned with the strength and grace of the ballerina, a role created on the pure, fleet-footed style of former Royal Ballet Principal Lesley Collier. The ballet is set to Sergei Rachmaninoff’s well-known Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, which moves from stormy passages to calmer interludes. The premiere of Rhapsody was given at the Royal Opera House in honour of Ashton’s close friend Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, on the occasion of her 80th birthday.
Who directed Rhapsody?
Rhapsody was directed by Not specified.
Who stars in Rhapsody?
The principal cast of Rhapsody includes Natalia Osipova, Steven McRae.
When was Rhapsody released and how long is it?
Rhapsody was released in 2016 with a total runtime of 33m.
What is the age rating and content advisory for Rhapsody?
Rhapsody holds official age classifications: GB: U (Universal — Suitable for all audiences.).