One of ballet’s most charming stories, Coppélia is the comic tale of villagers Swanhilda and her beau, Franz, and their encounter with the mysterious Dr. Coppélius. Their love story is interrupted when Franz turns his gaze toward Dr. Coppélius’ beautiful life-sized doll, and temporarily casts Swanhilda aside. After a zany second act full of frivolity in the toy shop and a case of mistaken identity, Coppélia‘s ending is ultimately a happy one. Danced to an animated score by Leo Delibes, Frederic Franklin’s lively choreography incorporating folk dance as well as classical ballet is Richmond Ballet’s delightful and amusing Valentine’s Day gift to the community.