The Sleeping Princess: an Analysis of Her Failure to Charm

Abstract

The Diaghilev Ballets Russes introduced its startled audiences to a revolutionary dance theatre. History recognizes Diaghilev and his collaborators as an indelible influence on the course of twentieth century dance; an influence reorienting ballet's goals as well as audience expectations. It is difficult to chart the progressive re-education of the public over a twenty-year period (1909-1929). London, however, in the year 1921, provides an excellent vantage point for a retrospective evaluation of the Ballet Russe's impact.