A Simple Man - A Dramatic Ballet by Gillian Lynne (DVD)

UPC: 809478009146

Product Features

• Ballet Title: A Simple Man
• Choreographer: Gillian Lynne
• Composer: Carl Davis
• Lead Performers: Christopher Gable, Moira Shearer
• Orchestra: BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
• Ballet Company: Northern Ballet Theatre
• Conductor: Carl Davis
• Extra Features:Subtitle Languages: English
  • Introduction by Albert Finney
  • Behind-the-scenes interviews with Gillian Lynne and Carl Davis
  • Photo gallery
  • Cast gallery
• Audio Formats: Stereo
• Region: All Regions
• Format: NTSC
• Aspect Ratio: 4:3
• Running Time: Approx. 56 minutes
• Release Year: 2005 (Remastered for DVD)

Overview

A Simple Man is a BAFTA award-winning dramatic ballet inspired by the life and works of the iconic British artist L.S. Lowry, known for his distinctive depictions of industrial life in Northern England. This ballet, commissioned in 1987 to commemorate the centenary of Lowry's birth, was devised, directed, and choreographed by the legendary Gillian Lynne, with music composed by Carl Davis.

The Northern Ballet Theatre, led by the incomparable Christopher Gable and the esteemed Moira Shearer, brings the story of L.S. Lowry and his complex relationship with his mother to life. Set against a backdrop of Lowry's evocative paintings, this performance captures the poignancy and beauty of his art. The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, under the direction of Carl Davis, complements the drama with an equally moving score.

This DVD has been remastered, providing enhanced visuals and sound, along with exclusive interviews with Gillian Lynne and Carl Davis, giving viewers an insightful look into the making of this landmark ballet.

Interesting Facts

• L.S. Lowry, known for his paintings of industrial scenes and matchstick men, had a deep emotional connection to his mother, who features prominently in his life story and this ballet.
• Gillian Lynne, the renowned choreographer of Cats and The Phantom of the Opera, worked closely with Carl Davis to create this ballet that seamlessly blends movement, music, and storytelling.
• Christopher Gable, who portrays Lowry, was a former Royal Ballet principal dancer and later the Artistic Director of Northern Ballet Theatre, contributing to the company’s rise in prominence.
• Moira Shearer, famous for her role in the classic film The Red Shoes, plays Lowry’s mother in this performance, marking one of her final on-screen appearances.
• This ballet was commissioned by the BBC in 1987 to celebrate the centenary of L.S. Lowry's birth and won the BAFTA award for Best Television Dance Programme in 1988.

Track Listing

• A Simple Man Ballet Performance (56 minutes)
• Extra Features:
  • Introduction by Albert Finney
  • Interviews with Gillian Lynne and Carl Davis
  • Photo gallery and cast gallery

Publishers

• Produced by: Opus Arte
• In Association with: Lean Two Productions Limited and Threefold Music
• Co-production with: BBC Worldwide and Lean Two Productions Limited

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