The Loves of Mars and Venus, or, Mr Weaver's Dramatick Entertainment

The story of the birth of modern ballet, told through baroque dance, music and theatre. 

It's 1717 in Drury Lane. John Weaver, a provincial dance master, is creating history. He is using the sexy, crowd-pleasing English theatre star - Hester Santow - and pairing her with the suave and elegant French court dancer, Monsieur Dupré, to fashion a totally new experience of dance for his public.

In these performances, celebrating the tercentenary of the birth of modern ballet, outstanding recorder artist - Evelyn Nallen - leads a baroque ensemble with authentic music of the period. Original 18th century choreographies are recreated by Gilles Poirier. The script is by Stephen Wyatt, spectacular baroque costumes by Chris de Wilde, direction by Jenny Miller.

The roles are recreated by Romain Arreghini and Chiara Vinci, with Michael Spenceley playing John Weaver. 

HASTINGS: Sunday 26th February St Mary in the Castle, 6PM.
Tickets: £15 in advance from barefoot opera.com, or £18 on the door

CAMBRIDGE: Thursday 2nd March — exactly 300 years to the day of the very first performance! Fitzwilliam College Auditorium, Storey’s Way, Cambridge CB3 0DG. 
Tickets £16 in advance from barefootopera.com or £18 on the door. 

LONDON: Sunday 5th March, The Courtauld Gallery, Somerset House, Strand WC2R 0RN, 4pm. FREE on admission to the Gallery.