Les malheurs de Sophie

Sophie has all kinds of nonsense in her head. Irrepressible curiosity and a thirst for adventure lead the young girl into ever new antics and exploits, to the exasperation of her parents and especially her cousin Paul. Paul attempts to limit her escapades, which so often get her into trouble. Russian author George Flévitzky’s libretto is based on motifs from the classical French children’s book by the Comtesse Sophie de Ségur. The ballet, which received its premiere in Paris in 1948, was choreographed by Robert Guinault. Each of the three sections of the plot is constructed around a series of short, highly melodic and energetic dances. Françaix’s music bubbles over with joie de vivre and perfectly captures Sophie’s young emotions and the carefree atmosphere.