La Fille Mal Gardée, The Wayward Daughter, is one of the oldest and most significant compositions in the modern ballet repertory. It was initially devised by an influential choreographer in the 18th century, Jean Daubervel. This ballet is inspired by Pierre-Antoine Baudouin 1789 painting, La réprimande/Une jeune fille querellée par sa mère, and is in two acts. La Fille Mal Gardee is about Widow Simone's only daughter, Lise, who loves Colas, a farmer. Her mother, however, is insistent that Lise is to marry a wealthy landowner's son, Alain. The Widow Simone tries her best to keep Lise and Colas away, but her attempts at doing so fails. At last, when Alain is at her house for their marriage, Alain and his father, Thomas, see the two together and decide to rip apart the marriage contract. Once they leave, Colas and Lise begin begging the Widow Simone for her blessings. The Widow finally acquiesces and Lise and Colas commemorate their love and happiness.

La Fille Mal Gardee’s Moderato variation from the 2nd act is slightly repetitive and contains many pirouettes (turns) and hops on pointe. In this particular variation, it is very sweet and delightful. Again, smiling is very important, and portraying the character really influences this piece. Keeping each part of the dance light and graceful is a principle element. Even if there are modifications for different dancers, they are still representing the same role. Also, make sure to support and stabilize yourself on the box of the pointe shoe when hopping throughout the variation, due to being able to fall and hurt yourself. When performing the variation, feel the joy, listen to the music (the musicality), and understand the energy needed for this piece.


Publish Date: 04/12/2020