Darcey Bussell and Roberta Bolle star in Frederick Ashton's Sylvia, restored to the splendour of its elegant and opulent three-act form for the 75th anniversary celebrations of The Royal Ballet.

Taken from Greek mythology, it tells the story of Sylvia, loved by Aminta, abducted by Orion and eventually rescued by Eros. Ashton was inspired by the music of Leo Delibes to create such great choreographic sequences as the famous Act 3 'pas de deux' and the mischievous role of Eros, one of the delightful, darkly comic characterisations for which Ashton became known and loved.

Sylvia is a wonderful showcase for virtuosity, invention and classical beauty, the epitome of Ashton style in stage settings of great detail and painterly perfection.

Marianela Nunez and Thiago Soares head the cast in this acclaimed production for the Royal Ballet from March 2009. Russian conductor Valeriy Ovsyanikov leads the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, while Anthony Dowell directs.

Marianela Nunez and Thiago Soares head the cast in this acclaimed production for the Royal Ballet from March 2009. Russian conductor Valeriy Ovsyanikov leads the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, while Anthony Dowell directs.