BalletPremiered 1960
Synopsis
La Fille Mal Gardée presents a charming pastoral comedy set in the French countryside, where a spirited young woman named Lise defies her mother's matchmaking schemes. The widow Simone has determined that Lise should marry the wealthy but dim-witted Alain, son of a prosperous farmer. However, Lise harbors genuine affection for Colas, a humble peasant boy of good character. As the plot unfolds through a series of delightfully comic encounters—including a famous scene where Simone attempts to keep Lise occupied with domestic tasks—the young lovers find ingenious ways to be together. The ballet celebrates youthful romance, maternal exasperation, and the triumph of true love over mercenary considerations, all set to a buoyant score that perfectly captures the work's lighthearted spirit and rustic charm.