La Esmeralda

Synopsis

La Esmeralda was inspired by the novel Notre Dame de Paris by Victor Hugo. The ballet was originally choreographed by Jules Perrot to music by Cesare Pugni with sets by William Grieve for three full acts.

In Le Jeune Dance’s special adaptation.......
The beautiful gypsy girl, Esmeralda, under gypsy law, “marries” the poet, Pierre Gringoire to save him from execution in the hands of the Gypsy King. The groom is smitten, but Esmeralda makes it clear that the marriage is strictly one of convenience. However, the corrupt Archdeacon Claude Frollo is unpleased with the entire situation and orders for the capture of Esmeralda.

Chance brings Esmeralda to a fateful encounter with the handsome Captain Phoebus de Châteaupers. She falls in love with him, unaware that he is engaged to the beautiful Fleur de Lys. Phoebus gives Esmeralda his fiancée’s scarf.

Celebrations are arranged to formally announce Fleur de Lys’ engagement. Avoiding main streets and the capture orders, Esmeralda dances her way to greet and congratulate Fleur de Lys for finding love. Esmeralda also filled with happiness in her heart tells Fleur de Lys of her own love. The two unknowingly speak of the same man. However, it is not long before Esmeralda discovers Fleur de Lys’s engagement announcements include Captain Phoebus. Esmeralda is crushed to find her fondness for Captain Phoebus ignored and not reciprocated.

Oblivious to Esmeralda’s troubles the festivities continue, until Fleur de Lys discovers her scarf with Esmeralda. Fleur de Lys angrily calls off the wedding. Captain Phoebus pleas for Fleur de Lys’ understanding. He declares the interaction with Esmeralda as meaningless.

Esmeralda, confused and sad finds comfort in the sweet poet Pierre Gringoire and her faithful friends.