KVN Dance Company presents Coppélia

Following sold-out performances in 2021, KVN Dance Company makes a welcome return with Kevan Allen’s magical reimagined version of the classical ballet Coppélia at Towngate Theatre, Basildon on Wednesday 17 April 2024 as part of a 16-venue UK tour.

Coppélia looks to honour the classical ballet while expanding on the story to make it relevant to audiences today. This retelling explores the eccentric toy maker, Dr Coppelius’ intent behind creating a life-size clockwork doll, Coppélia, and the impact this has on his relationship with the community of villagers and on Swanhilda’s relationship with her fiancé, Franz.

Fusing classical ballet with contemporary dance and hip-hop, Coppélia features a cast of 12 dancers
who perform to the classical Delibes score imaginatively remixed by Rickard Berg and nominated for
the Critics’ Circle National Dance Award for Outstanding Creative Contribution. Berg has previously
collaborated with artists including Mick Jagger, Mica Paris and Gavin Rossdale.

Aston spoke to artistic director, producer & choreographer of the Coppelia Kevan Allen.

Photography credit: Andrea Whelen