Mayerling is the name of the hunting lodge in which the heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Rudolf, was found dead in 1889. Why did the son of Emperor Franz Joseph and Elisabeth (the famous Sissi) commit suicide in the company of his mistress, the young Mary Vetsera? Kenneth MacMillan’s ballet inspired by this mystery‑shrouded historic event was first performed in London in 1978 and entered the Paris Opera’s repertoire in 2022. Plagued by addictions and suicidal thoughts, a tormented character buffeted by history, Rudolf provides an opportunity for the choreographer to develop themes dear to him. Set to feverish music by Franz Liszt, Mayerling unfolds an immensely theatrical neo-classical choreography. Grandiose scenes are interwoven with intimate scenes in sumptuous costumes whose autumnal hues reflect the decline of a world destined to disappear.

Rudolf: Heir to the Austrian crown Mary Vetsera: Daughter of Baroness Helena Vetsera, Rudolf’s lover Mary Larisch: Countess, Rudolf’s former lover and chaperone of Mary Vetsera Stephanie: Princess, Rudolf’s wife Franz Josef: Emperor of Austria, Rudolf’s father Elisabeth: Empress of Austria, Rudolf’s mother Mitzi Caspar: Rudolf’s mistress Bratfisch: Rudolf’s coachman and friend Bay Middleton: Colonel, Empress’s lover

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2669_MAYERLING_Kenneth MacMillan_Dorothée Gilbert (Mary Vetsera) Hugo Marchand (Prince Rodolphe) (c) ann ray OnP

Mayerling

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Mayerling is the name of the hunting lodge in which the heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Rudolf, was found dead in 1889. Why did the son of Emperor Franz Joseph and Elisabeth (the famous Sissi) commit suicide in the company of his mistress, the y

Kenneth MacMillan

In autumn 2022, Kenneth McMillan's Mayerling entered the Paris Opera repertoire. A challenge for both the dancers and artistic teams.Sumptuous sets and costumes, breathtaking pas de deux, a unique male lead and a multitude of supporting roles... the ballet created by the British choreographer is a passionate love story, that is both emotionally intense and technically demanding.Étoile dancers Mathieu Ganio and Ludmila Pagliero, along with the Paris Opera's artistic teams, share with us their journey through discovery, rehearsals, and preparations for this tour de force. This documentary is supported by the Fondation Orange, Sponsor of the Paris Opera's audiovisual broadcasts, and the POP Circle, Major donors of the Paris Opera's audiovisual projects.

Capture d’écran 2024-07-10 à 16.29.49

Dans les coulisses de Mayerling_trailer

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Behind the scenes of Mayerling

In autumn 2022, Kenneth McMillan's Mayerling entered the Paris Opera repertoire. A challenge for both the dancers and artistic teams. Sumptuous sets and costumes, breathtaking pas de deux, a unique male lead and a multitude of supporting roles... the