Scènes de ballet, K069

The ballet had a complex premiere history involving several distinct versions before reaching its complete scenic form:

• First scenic performance: 1944-11-24, Forrest Theater, Philadelphia, presented as part of Billy Rose’s revue The Seven Lively Arts.

The production was staged by Billy Rose, with solo dancers Alicia Markova and Anton Dolin, stage design by Norman Bel Geddes, costumes by Paul Dupont, choreography by Anton Dolin, and conducted by Maurice Abravanel.

• Scenic (shortened) version: 1944-12-07, Ziegfeld Theater, New York, on Broadway.

This was a greatly abbreviated adaptation of the Philadelphia staging, using the same creative team and forces.

• Original version, concert performance: 1945-02-02(03)?, Carnegie Hall, New York.

Performed by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Igor Stravinsky. This marked the first performance of the original, unabridged score in concert form.

• Original version, full scenic premiere: 1948-02-11, Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London.

Performed by the Sadler’s Wells Ballet, featuring Margot Fonteyn and Michael Somes, with choreography by Frederick Ashton and designs by André Beaurepaire.