Michael Bastian

Choreographer August Bournonville's stirring movements are brilliantly showcased in this Royal Danish Ballet version of one of his finest works, inspired by a visit to vibrant Naples, Italy. The fairy-tale story follows passionate young fisherman Gennaro (Arne Villumsen), who searches for his beloved Teresina (Linda Hindberg) when she disappears during a storm. Vivid set designs and bright costumes add to the production's exuberance.

Christian is a nice man climbing the career ladder. His brother Mikael, on the other hand, is a petty criminal who hustles his way through life as best he can. When Mikael dies, Christian feels responsible and, in order to get to know his deceased brother better, he seeks out the underworld Mikael belonged to. He should never have done that.

Lis Jepessen dances the lead role of La Sylphide -- a beautiful forest sprite who entrances Scottish farmer James (Nikolaj Hubbe) with her radiance -- in this memorable stage adaptation of August Bournonville's most enduring work, a piece he created for the Royal Danish Ballet in 1836. Sorella Englund co-stars as Madge, a vengeful witch and fortune-teller who, after being spurned by James, resolves to destroy his future.